In good condition, a French 1854 / 1855 Cuirassier Officer’s Sword by Chatellerault / Manceaux
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Most people refer to this as the 1854 model, but the cuirassier version, which this is (with the massive 38 1/4 inch blade), is the M1855. The blade is engraved “Manufacture Impériale de Chatellerault Juin 1855 ” for June 1855, and the guard / hilt marked to “Manceaux à Paris”, one of the top fournisseur (sword cutlers), more normally associated with very intricate / fine Asian style weapons. This sword was undoubtedly owned by a very well to do cuirassier officer. The sword and scabbard appear to have seen very active service in a particularly active time militarily in French history.
The 38 1/4 inch blade is in very good condition and firm in the hilt. The hilt / guard with some age, wear and a partial hairline crack to one bar is nonetheless in good condition. The walnut grip has lost most of its twisted grip wire bindings, has fine age cracks and a few small chips but is still good. The period chemically browned steel scabbard has age, a couple of dent and has no chape / drag, but is still good. The sword sheaves and draws well.
Oh how we wish we knew the original officer owner and history of this one! Well worth was £? (too late, now sold). Please quote item reference Z47. Further / full sized images available upon request. Box 1583-golf (2.430).
