Once Upon a time
French Fencing
Maison Prieur, founded in 1788, is the world's oldest fencing brand and the only French fencing equipment company with over two centuries of history.
236
years
history
As custodians of a rich and unique French manufacturing legacy, we continue to write this story daily, remaining true to our heritage while pointing our sword toward the future.
Our History
Maison Prieur: Born Amidst the French Revolution
In 1788, the Prieur brand was born with the opening of its first shop, specializing in the manufacture of various gloves, including fencing gloves.
Antoine Prieur Revolutionizes the World of Fencing
Tired of selling unattractive fencing outfits, Mr. Prieur gave them the aesthetic touch that made him the ambassador of elegant and refined fencing — the French Prieur touch was born.
First Advanced Fencing Mask Patent
The Prieur brand filed a patent for the invention of the first advanced fencing mask, characterized by a single piece of canvas or metal mesh stamped into the appropriate shape.
Patent: Foil Frame with Screws
The Prieur brand files a patent for the invention of a foil frame with screws and adjustable tension, a key advancement in weapon precision.
Expansion: Two New Boutiques
The Prieur brand expands with the opening of two new boutiques and inaugurates a Prieur fencing club in Paris.
Off-Center Guard for Épée
Prieur files a patent for a new off-center guard for the French grip épée, designed to better protect the fencer's hand.
Lucien Gaudin — Olympic Champion
Lucien Gaudin becomes double Olympic champion with a Prieur épée in hand, cementing the brand's reputation among champions worldwide.
Prieur Becomes Prieur Sports
Prieur becomes Prieur Sports, the fencer's friend. This new name symbolizes the brand's commitment to high-level competitors — a slogan that still resonates around the strips today.
Prieur Continues to Innovate
Prieur establishes its company in Montceau-Les-Mines and files a new patent for a safety mask. The iconic Prieur Mask is appreciated by beginners and World Champions alike.
Sparkling at Miss Universe
Prieur sparkles in the Miss Universe pageant, creating a mask adorned with Swarovski crystals and a custom épée for Miss France 2017, Alicia Aylies.
The Future of Fencing
Prieur presents its vision of the future of fencing at the Grand Palais in Paris, celebrating the 105th anniversary of the FIE and setting the stage for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Rally & Rise: A New Era
In 2016, Didier Contrepois took over the company, and the workshops were relocated to Genlis in Cote d'Or. The company is gradually regaining its splendor and aims to once again become the flagship of the fencing market by striving for global leadership. "Rally&Rise" becomes the new rallying cry of the French brand, which now sports a new logo symbolizing its commitment and deep attachment to fencing and its entire community of enthusiasts.
Back in Paris
Maison Prieur Re-Opens Its Parisian Passion Boutique
Prieur returns stronger than ever, reconnecting with its history by establishing a shop in Paris, just as it did in 1800. In a warm and refined atmosphere, fencers from all backgrounds are invited to (re)discover high-quality equipment made in France.
Learn MoreOur Iconic Products
Discover the Prieur Family
Explore our complete range of premium French fencing equipment, trusted by champions worldwide since 1788.