Vincennes Hunter's Officer's Sword Model 1838. France, 1838

Very rare officers sword from the Vincennes Hunter Battalion model 1838, made in France in 1838. This is a very special piece as is one of the weapons forged specifically for the experimental battalion of 200 hunters created in 1838. Though from 1840 on many similar swords were created for other battalions, the name Vicennes Hunters is always related to the first one. All the models are similar but can be distinguished for two small details that we can see in this sword: the engraved star at the end of the d-guard (where it meets the pommel) and the one engraved in the upper quillon. In later models the stars become spirals or conches. As well as these two details, the weapon that we can see in the images bears a hand-engraved inscription in cursive lettering in the place where the blade meets the hilt. We can see the engraved word Kligenthal, the place where this saber-sword was made. Only the swords forged for the Vincennes Hunter Battalion of 1838 come from this place, so this confirms that this particular weapon belongs to the famous battalion. The blade is made of lean steel and remains in good condition, as well as the scabbard; this one mounts brass locket and chappe, two details that make a fine contrast with the silvery blade. The hilt is made of brass and is profusely decorated with engraved designs; the vessel shows off a group of hunting-related vegetal motifs that repeat over the rest of the piece. The grip is made of solid wood and remains quite well preserved. This rare and gorgeous officers saber-sword from the Vincennes Hunter Battalion is a very special piece. Any good collector of antique weapons will recognize a real find in it. Measurements: Total Lenght: 38.4 in / 96 cm. Blade Length: 32.4 in / 81 cm.