FRANCE. French infantry briquet sabre – Type An XI / civilian manufacture (circa 1815-1830)

Authentic French infantry briquet sabre, of the An XI type, corresponding to a civilian or post-regulation manufacture, very probably datable to the Restoration period (around 1815-1830).

This saber takes up the emblematic silhouette of the infantry briquet adopted under the Consulate and the First Empire, while presenting characteristics specific to later productions: flat blade without markings, assembly outside of state manufacture and finishes conforming to civilian manufactures of the first third of the 19th century.

The one-piece brass handle with 27 grooves is characteristic of these transitional briquet sabers, widely distributed before the final adoption of the 1831 model sword, which would replace this type of weapon in the French infantry.

Type: French infantry briquet saber.

Model / type: Year XI (civil or post-regulatory interpretation).

Probable period: around 1815-1830.

Total length: 70 cm.

Blade: 57 cm , flat and curved without visible markings, slight play perceptible in the blade without breakage or separation (common on old weapons of this type).

Mount: one-piece brass, 27-groove handle.

Scabbard: leather with brass fittings, the brass fitting at the bottom of the scabbard is missing its clips and the brass fitting at the top of the scabbard retains its clip, but it no longer holds properly.

These elements are visible in the photographs; they do not alter the authenticity or historical interest of the piece, but must be considered for a restoration project or museum presentation.

Historical context:

The briquet sword has equipped the French infantry since the end of the 18th century. The An XI type, adopted in 1803, became one of the symbols of the Napoleonic campaigns.

After 1815, these sabers continued to be manufactured and used by secondary corps, the National Guard, and the civilian market.

Examples from this period frequently exhibit an absence of blade markings, simplified assemblies, and minor variations in finish, perfectly consistent with this one.

This saber is part of this historical transition phase, just before the adoption of the 1831 model sword.

A representative example of post-Empire civilian productions.

The photographs are an integral part of the description and are binding on the buyer.

The purchase constitutes acceptance of the condition of the item as presented.