Early 19th Century British Cavalry Officer's Mameluke Sabre, sold

An exceptionally high quality British light cavalry officer's mameluke, early 19C, possibly Napoleonic, in very good / excellent condition.

This mameluke was not carried by any cavalry officer. It is believed to be a maker's sample, which is why it is in such good condition. The blade is superbly etched with a vacant Georgian style tablet cartouche where the reining monarch's royal cypher would go, but there isn't one. Renowned sword cutler Odell is believed to have been working from 72 Burlington Arcade (the address etched to the forte / ricasso) from around 1813 to 1819 (after 1819 he was at 71-72 Burlington Arcade) (see NY Historical Society sword).

The blank tablet blade cartouche proving scope for the eventual owner to have etched whatever they please there, or they can leave it blank, of course.

Although the 30 inch blade has a very small number of very light rust spots, they should fairly easily clean off (we have simply stabilized the blade). The blade has never been sharpened and for that matter, has seldom been outside the scabbard, as it is as tight as new when fully sheathed. The steel scabbard has suffered some rusting, but not too much, and again, it could be fairly readily restored. The ivory grips have not cracked, which is the norm for a sword of this age, probably as it was stored well and protected. The original sword knot has dulled and aged.

This is a very impressive, elegant and well made, high quality sabre, the quality of which could not be matched today. When you hold it, apart at marveling at the workmanship, you find it very hard to believe the sabre is around 200 years old, but it is. Truly, well worth every penny. Please quote item reference number H09 (992). Further / full sized images available upon request.