Spanish Saber Model 1825

Fine Spanish saber with steel scabbard and brass hilt. This is a saber for light cavalry troop, model 1825, forged by Gabriel Benito de Ibarzabal (Eibar, Spain). We can deduce this fact from the mark with the word YBARZABAL engraved at the scabbards locket and at the cross-guard. The saber is in good condition, and the brass hilt, elegant and curve, looks polished and shiny. The steel blade shows some slight signs of wear at the top, near the rain guard, but it is in good general condition.We can say the same about the scabbard that except for some small dents at the edge (the chape) looks as solid an attractive as when this sword was in use. The artisan that made this weapon, Gabriel Benito de Ibarzábal, had his forge at Eibar (Guipúzcoa, Spain) and was a prestigious Spanish weapon manufacturer of the 19th century. The Spanish government at the time had ordered him the manufacturing of all their cavalry swords and sabers. In an ancient document we can read that in 1815, the government decided to order Ibarzábal 700 hilts and scabbards for the swords of the Royal Guard de Corps because of the good work he performed when elaborating the sabers and swords for the Prince and Infant of Spain.The quality manufacture of this saber is evident in its attractive design and beautiful making. The hilts design is especially remarkable, with the guard composed of three quillons that emerge from the same stem, beginning at the pommel. The quillons open and separate to eventually join the cross-guard. Their curved and smart shape looks surprisingly modern and makes a nice contrast with the solid steel blade and scabbard. The material that covers the grip is in good condition except for three slight flaws at the top, scarcely visible.This fine saber is a historic and antique piece, whose nice design and careful making reveal the work of a prestigious sword manufacturer.Measurements: Scabbard: 103 cm. Blade: 89 cm.