219 - A FRENCH NAVAL BRIQUET SABRE, MARINE IMPERIALE, CIRCA 1800–1815

A FRENCH NAVAL BRIQUET SABRE, MARINE IMPERIALE, CIRCA 1800–1815 Regulation short sabre of French naval briquet type, attributable to service with the Marine Impériale during the Napoleonic period. The single-edged, slightly curved steel blade with broad fuller is engraved at the forte with an anchor motif, emblematic of naval service. The blade forte is additionally struck with two circular inspection stamps, one appearing as a crowned or rosette-form device, the other a secondary round mark, consistent with French arsenal inspection practices of the period. The cast brass hilt features a ribbed grip with an integral knuckle bow, a short quillon terminating in a knop, and a flat guard. The guard bears multiple inspection or acceptance stamps, including a small stamped device at the centre of the guard and the number "193," likely an arsenal, rack, or unit inventory designation. The sabre is housed in its original wooden scabbard, leather-covered and fitted with a brass throat and chape, featuring a ball finial. Naval briquet sabres of this type were issued to marines, shipboard troops, and coastal service units, favouring compact dimensions and durable brass construction suitable for maritime use. Naval briquet sabres are distinguished from standard French infantry briquets by explicit maritime symbolism, such as engraved anchors and by their association with naval inspection marks. Such examples were produced in smaller numbers than infantry briquets and are correspondingly scarcer in surviving condition. Dimensions: L: 33 1/4 in., (84.5 cm.) Condition: The blade shows age-related spotting and surface wear, with the anchor engraving and inspection stamps remaining clearly visible. The brass hilt retains a warm, original patina with scattered abrasions and minor bruising. The scabbard shows wear and losses to the leather covering, with brass fittings intact. The blade fits the scabbard well. Overall condition is good and honest, retaining strong period character. Please make all inquiries before bidding. All statements contained in the catalog, condition reports, invoices, advertisements, or elsewhere concerning the authorship, attribution, origin, date, age, period, culture, source, provenance, authenticity, genuineness, condition, rarity, importance, or value of any lot are statements of opinion only and shall not be construed as representations, warranties, or statements of fact. All lots are sold "as-is", refer to our T&C. Helios Auctions does not offer in-house shipping. We will provide a list of recommended shippers upon request.