35 - FRANCE, 19th century

FRANCE, 19th century Infantry officer’s uniform sword, Model 1816, modified in 1830. Straight, double-edged blade with two fuller grooves halfway down and a central ridge, showing traces of inscriptions at the pommel. Dulled brass guard with a single branch and a molded crossguard, originally adorned with a large fleur-de-lis on the outside (removed in 1830). Lowered counterguard (possibly a later modification). Small, flattened, and chamfered baluster-shaped quillon. Smooth hemispherical pommel screwed onto the tang. Wooden tang fully sheathed in braided filigree and gilded brass cord. Straight blade with a small cutting edge; two hollow sides engraved in the upper quarter with gilded trophies and branches; flat back, ending in a counter-edge; cartouche at the heel monogrammed “… .H.” Includes the tarnished brass fittings of a scabbard. Blade length: 77.2 cm - Overall length: 90.6 cm. Without scabbard. As is. Wear, scratches, and a few impact marks; oxidation spots on the blade.