1180 - Sword of a Major General of the Second Empire. Gilded bronze mount, chiseled guard featuring thunderbolts. Fixed front hilt, featuring a relief casting of an imperial eagle perched on thunderbolts, set against a background of bundles of flags, and adorned with three riveted silver stars. On the reverse of the hilt are two initials of the armorer, the second of which is a D, as well as the inscription “Certified Supplier to His Majesty the Emperor.” The counter-hilt is plain and swiveling. Horn tang with gilded filigree. Double-edged blade, bearing a partial maker’s mark, 80.5 cm in length. Scarlet cloth scabbard. Black patent leather scabbard with two gilt bronze fittings. Pommel knob adorned with an antique-style helmet and a chiseled pommel cap featuring plant motifs. Accompanied by its gilt sword knot. In fine condition, with signs of normal wear and patina. French divisional general’s sword, Second Empire period. Gilt bronze hilt with a guard chiseled with lightning bolt motifs. Fixed front guard plate featuring a raised Imperial eagle resting on lightning bolts against a background of bundled flags, adorned with three riveted silver stars. The reverse of the guard plate bears two sword cutler’s initials, the second being D, along with the inscription “Fournisseur brevete de S.M. l’Empereur” (Officially Appointed Supplier to His Majesty the Emperor). Plain hinged rear guard plate. Horn grip with gilt wire binding. Double-edged blade bearing a partial maker’s stamp, measuring 80.5 cm in length. Scarlet cloth blade washer. Black patent leather scabbard with two gilt bronze fittings. The locket stud is decorated with a classical-style helmet, while the chape is chiseled with floral motifs. Complete with its gilt sword knot. In well-preserved condition, showing signs of normal wear and age-related patina.