Early 19th century French Cavalry Officer's Sabre from period of Consulate (1799 - 1804). 29 5/8 inch long, single fuller blade with 9 3/4 inch niter blue panel with etched, gold washed, floral and military motifs. The balance of the blade is polished bright. The reverse ricasso is marked with the maker's initials: "S & K" (Schnitzler P. J. & Kirschbaum W. B. S. 1787 -1811). Brass D-guard hilt, fluted pommel, down-turned quillon and prominent lagnets. The grip is checkered ebony. The black leather scabbard has a sheet brass throat, middle band, suspension rings and tip. The sabre is complete with a silver wire saber knot decorated with two red bands.
Condition: Very good plus. The blade has 85% or more of the fiery niter blue, gold washed finish and most of the original polish. Significant wear is limited to a small nick in the edge and a chip at the tip of the blade. The guard is in very good condition wish an un-polished patina. There are several cracks in the ebony grip and the blade is slightly loose in the hilt. The scabbard is also very good. It has a flex marks, scattered flaking and some of the stitching has deteriorated. Sheet brass mounts are also very good with minor dents and scratches. (Ref. Les Sabres - Portes par L'Armee Francaise by Jean Lhoste p.160 )
