1103 - Sword of the Public Force of the Belgian Congo, prior to 1911. Straight, double-edged blade, formerly engraved, but the engraving has been erased. Horn hilt, filigree missing. Bronze mount with a chiseled shell bearing the coat of arms of the State of Congo, featuring a lion, and bearing the motto “TRAVAIL ET PROGRÈS,” marked by the firm FONSON et Cie. Smooth guard; the spring-loaded locking button no longer functions, and the guard is locked in place. The crossguard terminates in a lion’s muzzle. Nickel-plated iron scabbard with a loop for a strap. Oxidation and signs of wear from use. Belgian Congo Force Publique sword, pre-1911. Straight double-edged blade, formerly engraved, with the engraving now worn away. Horn grip with missing wire binding. Bronze hilt with a chiseled guard bearing the lion coat of arms of the Congo State and the motto WORK AND PROGRESS , marked FONSON et Cie. Plain folding counterguard; the spring-loaded locking button no longer works, and the counterguard is stuck. Quillon ending in a lion’s head. Nickel-plated iron scabbard with one suspension ring. Oxidation and signs of use.