FRENCH OFFICER’S SWORD C.1800-15

Napoleonic Wars period. Gilt hilt with boat form guard and plumed helmet pommel. Fine silver wire-wrapped grip. Heirloom rapier blade, 30 5/8” length, of diamond section with deep line fullers at the forte marked IN SOLINGEN. The custom of mounting heirloom family blades to officer’s swords was particularly popular in England during the second half of the 18th century. It was practiced throughout northern Europe, though less frequently. Excellent with the original fire gilt gold about 50% intact.