French Model 1852 Imperial Guard Short Sword. M1831/52 Glaive

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French 1831/52 Second Pattern Short Sword French Imperial Guard M1852 Glaive French Model 1852 Imperial Guard Short Sword. M1831/52 Glaive #3 French Model 1852 Imperial Guard Short Sword. M1831/52 Glaive #4 French Gladius Side Arm Model 1831/52 French Model 1852 Imperial Guard Short Sword. M1831/52 Glaive #6 French Model 1852 Imperial Guard Short Sword. M1831/52 Glaive #7 French Model 1852 Imperial Guard Short Sword. M1831/52 Glaive #8 French Model 1852 Imperial Guard Short Sword. M1831/52 Glaive #9 French Model 1852 Imperial Guard Short Sword. M1831/52 Glaive #10
This is the rare Model 1852 infantry side arm, also known as the second pattern of the Model 1831 French Infantry Glaive, “glaive des troupes à pied modèle 1831.” The Model 1831’s Neo-classical design was based on the Roman Gladius but it was a heavy and unwieldy side arm and unpopular with the troops. It earned the colloquial nickname “coupe choux” meaning “cabbage chopper.”

The Model 1831 was modified in 1852, lightening the blade by giving it a broad central fuller. These modified side arms were issued to select guards’ regiments until they were discontinued and replaced in May 1868.

The double-edged, lenticular section blade is 488mm in length with a broad central fuller. The blade is engraved on the ricasso with “Troupes à pied mle 1831.” The obverse ricasso has two poincon and is engraved, “Meure Impale de Chat,” above “8bre 1858,” indicating that the sword was made at the Chatellerault armoury in October 1858.

The blade has been service sharpened and retains its fighting edges. The blade is in overall good condition with some contact nicks on the edges and a mild age patina

The solid brass hilt has a grip patterned of 26 raised ribs. The crosspiece is stamped with two poincon and the letter “A.”

The Glaive is complete with its black leather scabbard with brass mounts. The brass throat and chape have dents and bruising and the leather has damage and is missing its stitching.

This is a rare example of the modified or second pattern of the famous French 1831 infantry side arm.

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