Antique Navy Officer's Sword. France, S. XIX

Great French saber-sword for naval officer with profusely decorated hilt and original black leather scabbard. The sword was forged in the 19th century and remains in excellent condition. The steel blade looks even and with no relevant traces of rust or wear, while the black scabbard remains soft and regular. The scabbard mounts brass locket, decorated with an embossed anchor, and preserves the original rings. It also has a central brass reinforcement piece and a brass chape at the end. But surely the most attractive part of this amazing antique sword is the hilt, made of hand-engraved brass. The cross-guard is trimmed with an animal head, and the rest of the piece is decorated with an anchor (a symbol of the Navy) and intertwined vegetal motives. The brass piece that covers and reinforces the grip bears a fine fringe of engraved scallops. The grip is made of ebony-finished wood, with a nice shiny black finish that makes a great contrast with the golden metal and the steel blade. Every lover of antique weapons will appreciate this antique swords attractiveness. It is both an appealing and beautiful piece.