A good example of a French model 1845/55 Infantry officer’s sword. The model 1845 was one of the most popular and widely used of the French army swords. It was in service from 1845 up to and including World War one. Some French National Guard units still use it today.
The 760mm single-edged blade has twin fullers, one narrow, immediately below the slightly rounded spine, the other broad and central. Both fullers run the full length of the blade into the quill point. The blade is double-edged for the last 250mm. The blade is in very good condition and has a replacement red felt washer. The ricasso bears remnants of the maker’s details.
The brass guard is richly decorated with pierced roses and has a scroll quillon. The D-guard divides as it joins the capped pommel to allow for the addition of a sword knot. The pommel cap is etched with a central rose flanked by laurels. The tang of the blade is peened in the centre of the stepped oval pommel. The guard is in excellent condition. The ridged horn grip is in very good condition. The blade is firm in the hilt.
The sabre is complete with its original steel scabbard with twin suspension rings. The scabbard is in good condition with a few small dings and some shallow pitting towards the bottom. The sword sheathes and draws smoothly and is held firmly within the scabbard.
This is a good example of the iconic French model 1845/55 army officer’s sword.
