France, Third Republic (1870-1940). - Lot 174

France, Third Republic (1870-1940). Model 1822/99 artillery officer's saber of private manufacture "BALP SAINT ETIENNE". Half-rimmed bronze mounting with two secondary branches decorated at the base with palmettes, cap with button-dome bead and short tail edged with a garland of laurel leaves. Watermarked brown horn handle (watermark missing). Guard plate ending in a beak decorated with a 7-branched palmette surmounted by 2 small acanthus leaves arranged in a cross. Natural leather tie. Slightly curved white blade, with hollow front and flat back, with manufacturer's stamp "BALP ST ETIENNE" on the heel. Steel scabbard with one suspension ring and asymmetrical stinger. In original condition, never previously in collection. 104.5 cm (Blade 90 cm). (Wear and minor accidents from use. Fairly good condition).