A particularly fine infantry officer’s sabre of the type associated with officers of Napoleon’s Young Guard, retaining attractive gilding and its uncommon leather-covered scabbard with gilt-brass mounts.

The sabre is fitted with a Solingen blade, decorated with finely engraved martial and ornamental motifs. The hilt form is known from swords carried by infantry officers of the Imperial Guard. In contrast with more elaborate Guard officers’ examples, this sabre lacks both the silver Napoleon portrait on the hilt and extensive blade decoration, characteristics associated with examples attributed to the Young Guard.

Of particular interest is the scabbard, which has two suspension rings. This may indicate use by a mounted infantry officer, possibly a captain, as officers of that rank could be mounted. The attribution should, however, remain cautious in the absence of a named original owner.

Preserved in superb condition and measuring 93 cm overall, this is an unusually complete and attractive Imperial Guard-style officer’s sabre.

Provenance: Ex collection Drs. Henk Lieffers, former head of the Dutch intelligence service.