Authentic Infantry briquet saber model An XI, used by French troops during the First Empire under Napoleon I.
Manufactured in Klingenthal, this type of saber benefits from the expertise of the main French bladed weapon factory of the time.
The hallmarks on the hilt and blade allow precise identification of the manufacturing period, between 1809 and 1811.
At the ricasso, hallmarks of Lieutenant-Colonel Claude Marion (M under a star in an oval), inspector from December 12, 1808 to 1811, and of JG Bick (B in an oval), 1st class controller from February 23, 1809 to 1812.The guard branch also bears the hallmarks of Claude Marion and JG Bick.
The saber has been subject to a thorough antique cleaning, but it still retains its markings and remains an authentic piece from the period.
The scabbard is not original. It is a post-Empire scabbard (19th century), made of leather with brass fittings. It is in good antique condition and fits the saber well.
The presented example has a one-piece bronze hilt, characteristic of the period's production, with a 28-fluted grip. The curved blade, of the briquet type, is designed for slashing and perfectly reflects the military use of this weapon.
- Model: Infantry briquet saber model An XI.
- Origin: France.
- Period: First Empire.
- Hilt: One-piece bronze with Klingenthal hallmark (Bick, between 1809 and 1812).
- Flat blade with inscription on the back: Manufacture Impériale du Klingenthal coulaux frères.
- Guard: Single branch, tear-drop quillon.
- Grip: Fluted handle. (28 flutes).
- Blade: Curved, flat V-shaped, Klingenthal hallmarked.
- Scabbard: Not original – post-Empire (19th century), leather + brass.
- Overall length: 72.5 cm.
- Blade length: 58.5 cm.
Adopted at the beginning of the 19th century, the briquet saber is the emblematic bladed weapon of the French infantryman. Robust, short, and easy to handle, it was intended for both close combat and daily use in the field.
This An XI model corresponds to the regulatory evolution of Napoleonic infantry sabers. It is distinguished by solid and standardized manufacturing, notably from the famous Klingenthal Manufactory, a major center for the production of military bladed weapons in France.
Used on numerous European battlefields, the briquet saber remains today one of the most representative symbols of the First Empire soldier's equipment.
Collector's interest
The photographs are an integral part of the description and are binding on the buyer.
Purchase implies acceptance of the item's condition as presented.
