This is an Import Model 1840 Officer's Cavalry Saber of the French Model 1844 design. There are no maker marks on the saber. It measures 41 1/2" overall with a 35 3/4" curved blade. There is a wide fuller that runs from the ricasso 26 1/2" long. A narrow fuller just below the false edge begins 7 1/4" from the ricasso and is 17 1/2" long. The blade has been etched and has floral designs intermingled with military shields, cannon and flags. Neither side of the blade has the letters US or anything else to suggest it was made in the United States. The obverse side of the blade still has some shine and the etching is still visible. There are some dark age marks on the ricasso and along the length of the blade. The reverse side of the blade has some bright spots, but has aged areas and light pitting over the length of the blade. The edge of the blade is free of nicks or any other damage. The 3/8" spine has a fine floral etching running from the hilt 15" long. There is no washer at the hilt and a slight deflection of the blade. The brass hilt has a dark aged patina. It has a symmetrical two branch guard integrated into the knuckle bow. An acanthus fan is cast into the back of the guard. Each branch of the guard has a floral design, inside and outside. More floral design is cast where the knuckle bow and pommel join. The Phygerian style brass pommel cap also has the floral design cast into it. The wooden grip is marine skin covered and remains tight to the grip. The twisted brass wire is broken and only part of it remains on the grip. The iron scabbard has an out of the attic black patina. There is one dent about four" up from the drag on the obverse side. There are no inspector marks on the scabbard. Both iron mounts and suspension rings show moderate wear. Here is another nice example of an imported saber used during the Civil War.

Item # AA883

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