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1 of 253523 objects
Infantry sabre c.1789-92
Steel, wood, gilt bronze, copper | 75.0 cm (blade length) | RCIN 67466
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French infantry sabre; gilt bronze hilt with faceted back plate and helmet as its head. Bellied wooden grip with copper wire; curved one-edged blade with broad fuller. Gilt metal panel at hilt etched with military trophy. Floral sprig, inscription and woman with sceptre with inscription reading 'Liberté'.
Inscribed on the right side of the blade: LA NATION - LA VIGILANCE ET LA FORCE FONT SUCCOMBER CHAQUE ATROCE
Inscribed on the left side of the blade: VIVRE LIBRE OU MOURIR / POUR LE SALUT DE MA PATRIE
Embossed on the guard: LA NATION LA LOC LA ROC / GARDE NATIONALE DE FRANCEProvenance
In the collection of George IV when Prince of Wales at Carlton House, where it was kept in the Armoury.
Recorded in the inventory of Arms and Armour at Carlton House with the note: 'Made at Paris, 1789. This sword was worn by a French Officer belonging to the National Guards which were established about this time for the defence of that country and it will ever be recollected that this was the epoch that gave birth to that wonderful revolution which has convulsed the rest of Europe even to this day.' -
Creator(s)
(nationality)Acquirer(s)
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Medium and techniques
Steel, wood, gilt bronze, copper
Measurements
75.0 cm (blade length)
93.5 cm (whole object)
Category
Object type(s)
