The value of Corsican weapons, styli, knives and pistols

The Corsican stylet or the emergence of a purely identity-based weapon

The stylet is a dagger-like Corsican knife that can reach 40 cm in length. Comprising a double-edged blade and a wooden, brass, horn or coral handle, it is usually accompanied by an inscription.

The stylet was originally an awl used for writing or engraving, or piercing leather. The stylus is a derivative of the Genoese knife and appeared in Corsica in the 16th century. It became a weapon, as well as a tool, when the carrying and transport of weapons was prohibited. The weapon became official during wars against Italy, Genoa, and France in the 18th century. The stylus is unisex, worn by men and women on their belts, but also by the clergy, and becomes a ceremonial object as it becomes increasingly refined. In the 19th century, particular attention was paid to style and beauty. This attention is reflected in the richness of the materials used in the pommel, composed of a faceted ebony handle enriched with chased mother-of-pearl blades, rudented metal fillets, brass frieze, bone and horn inlay. Composition found at auctions.

The Corsican stylus: the birth of a weapons culture

Corsica was a Genoese colony in the 18th century and the scene of numerous internal conflicts. The maquis was populated by convicts, and natives and shepherds were driven off their land.This climate prompted Corsicans to demand the possibility of carrying a weapon for self-defense. Genoa saw this opportunity as a chance to raise a tax. The corrupt legal system of the Genoese republic leads to the birth of the vendetta, justice by oneself for oneself. Civil war breaks out in 1729 and lasts around four years. The Corsicans are in revolt and eager to regain a measure of freedom, security and justice. The stylet embodied this desire. It's a new type of weapon found at auctions.

Rating and value of a Corsican stylus at auction

The price of Corsican styli can vary considerably depending on several factors, such as the complexity of the design, the materials used and the reputation of the craftsman. In general, quality Corsican styli can be purchased for as little as fifty euros, and can reach several hundred euros or more for the most refined and sought-after models. Styli made from precious woods, such as hundred-year-old olive wood, can command a higher price due to their rarity and intrinsic value. It should be noted that these prices are approximate and may vary from the designer.

Thevendetta Corsica engraved on styli

Typical of Corsica, a "warrior" state, the vendetta is the culture of revenge. When a murder is committed, the family of the deceased makes up for the affront with a similar or even identical act. The stylus embodies this tradition, and the blade is adorned with a motto calling for revenge, "vendetta", "Che La Mia Ferita - Sia Mortale" ("May my wound be mortal"), "Morte al nemico" ("Death to the enemy"). These mottos can be found on many styli sold at auction. For an islander, owning a knife marks the passage from childhood to adulthood. The stylet symbolizes the freedom of the armed man, and the beauty of the object the temperament and status of its owner. It is part of the heritage and can be passed down within the family.

The support of an auctioneer in the appraisal and sale of works is necessary to guarantee both seller and buyer a quality service during auctions. The interest is material, it is important to appraise the object and establish the rarity or otherwise of the materials, distinctive elements, provenance and date. Beyond this aspect, it's the promotion of a cultural heritage.