Set of Weapons (Rapier and Dagger) for the Elector Augustus of Saxony

Having learned from the Italian weapons in the Rüstkammer in Dresden, in his commissioned works Jahn turned to modern weapon types such as the rapier and to the art of damascening, which was enjoying a heyday in Milan. He took full artistic advantage of working with precious metals within the restrictions placed on hiltsmiths as opposed to goldsmiths (chiseled-iron technique, gold and silver damascening, and silver reliefs as medallions). Jahn’s sets of weapons for the elector incorporated the latter’s maxims of faith and government in their pictorial programs: the silver medallions of the rapier depict scenes from the life of Christ; the damascened grip, scenes of King David. The main motifs on the completely damascened dagger are the Pelican with Her Young (pommel) and Saint Lucretia (mouthpiece of the sheath).