French Infantry Briquet M1831
The French Infantry Glaive M1831, “glaive des troupes à pied modèle 1831,” was known colloquially by the troops as the “coupe choux” meaning “cabbage chopper”. Although iconic, it was not a popular weapon, being heavy and unwieldy and it tended to be used more as a field tool instead of as a weapon - as its nick-name suggests.
Its Neo-classical design was based on the Roman Gladius.
The solid brass hilt has a grip patterned of 26 raised ribs. The hilt is stamped with the letter “N” within a circle and the issue number “4096.”
The double-edged, diamond section blade is 494mm in length and is in excellent condition, marked on the ricasso with the maker’s name, Talabot Fs (Brothers), and the manufacture date of 1832 above “Paris.” The obverse bears an oval containing the letter “B” and a square containing crossed swords and a letter “P” within a shield. The blade is clean and bright with minimal age related tarnish.
The original issue scabbard is also in fantastic condition. The leather is sound and the stitching intact. The sword sheaths and draws well and is held firmly within the scabbard.
This is a lovely example of the famous French infantry short sword.
