France, Third Republic (1870-1940). - Lot 321

France, Third Republic (1870-1940). Épée d'Officier supérieur d'État-Major variant of the June 1, 1872 model, privately made by A.Chassepot in Châtellerault. Gilt bronze mounting, inverted truncated cone pommel decorated with half-lightning bolts, joint arch decorated with plant friezes and median ring, dividing at its base into two small branches. Cross chased with laurel foliage and quillon ending in a leonine mask. Filigreed horn spindle. Reniform keyboard flanked by an antique-style helmet crossing a sword between oak and laurel branches. Manceaux-type folding counter-keyboard. Beautiful diamond-shaped blade signed on the heel "A. Chassepot Entrepreneur à Châtellerault". Black leather scabbard with two brass fittings, the cap with a button with a speckled helmet (good condition). 92 cm (Blade 72 cm). Note: Sword perpetuating the 1817 model, with half-moons on the pommel.