Fantastic high grade sabre from Consular period (1799 - 1804). This tape of sabres were given as an award to high ranking Chasseurs and Hussars staff officers. Sabre was made during Consular period but it was used through 1st Empire period until restoration of monarchy. Brass hilt with semi-curved guard attached to the pommel. Everything heavily gold gilded. Black mahogany checkered grip panels. 33 inches long polished blade with narrow fuller on both sides and double edge on the lower third. About 1/3rd of the blade is blued and engraved with militaria and gilded scrolling foliage on both sides. Brass scabbard beautifully chiseled on outer side with inner side decorated with imprinted flowers. scabbard was also gold gilded.
Condition: Very good overall although not much gold gilding remaining. Blade is clean with no rust or pitting, blue is still strong and engraving has most of the gold. Hilt, pommel and guard in excellent condition with still lots of gold showing. Perfect mahogany grips with no chips or dents. Scabbard has one dent on the lower section and it is cracked on one side, right under the chiseled figure (it is almost unnoticeable with sabre inserted). Ref. Les Sabres - Portes par L'Armee Francaise by Jean Lhoste p. 133)
Wonderful sabre - looks gorgeous on display.
