The British 1803 pattern Infantry Flank Officer's sabre is a "must have" sword for many collectors and this is an extremely fine example.
The 76 cm curved blade was originally blued with gilt inlay to the engraving. The blade is in over-all very good condition and free of rust. The blueing has faded and there are a few minor edge nicks and a very small area of pitting (inactive). The blade was service sharpened and has clearly seen action, most likely during the Peninsular and Napoleonic Wars.
The hand engraving on one side of the blade shows the name "Tho' Lowe" within decorative borders. It may be possible to identify the named individual and to place the sword at particular battles. Below the owner's name are trophies of war. Above this are rosettes and ribbons and the Royal Arms bearing the mottoes "Dieu et Mon Droit" and "Honi Soit Qui Mal Y Pense." Above the Royal Arms are engraved the "Flowers of the Union" - rose, thistle and shamrock.
The obverse of the blade is engraved with decorative borders including flowers. Above this is an engraving of an infantry officer in period uniform (maybe the 38th Foot) flourishing an 1803 pattern sabre. Above this is the cypher of King George III below a Georgian crown.
The engraving is of high quality with tiny traces of the original gilt remaining.
The hilt is ivory which is in excellent condition with its twisted wire intact. The cyphered guard and lions head pommel are very well made and intricately detailed. Some of the cheaper 1803 pattern lions' heads look more like dogs or bears and most swords of this pattern have shagreen (ray skin) grips. Ivory was expensive and usually an indicator of seniority amongst officers.
The blade is firm in the hilt and the original velvet bumper/washer remains. Much of the hilt's original gilding also remains.
This sword is beautiful. It was a very expensive weapon in its day. The fighting blade is perfectly balanced and beautifully engraved. The sword has the quality, attention to detail and adornments associated with the owner being a wealthy and senior officer.
