This is a highly curved example of an 1803 pattern Infantry Flank officer’s sabre and dates from between 1803 and 1812. The Flank companies of the British army were the Grenadiers and Light companies of a battalion were considered the elite of these infantry regiments, often fighting out in front of the main army as skirmishers. Grenadiers were also the senior company of any infantry battalion and would typically lead an assault.
The 680mm highly curved blade has a single edge with a flat spine. The blade is double-edged for the final 230mm and terminates in a hatchet point. Both upper and lower edges were service sharpened and remain sharp. The blade retains only faint traces of its etching.
The blade is in fair condition with patches of tarnish and pitting, the worst being along the spine towards the point. The blade has use and cleaning scratches. There are some tiny nicks along the edge consistent with use.
The gilt brass stirrup hilt is in great condition and retains much of its original gilding. The shagreen grip has an excellent colour and is in good condition, retaining its silver wire. The blade is firm in the hilt.
The sabre is complete with its leather scabbard with brass mounts. The scabbard has a repaired crack to the leather below the top locket and is in good condition for its 200+ years of age. The brass locket, middle band and chape have age and use related dings and have a good patina. The locket bears the cutlers details; “R. Johnston, Late Bland & Foster. Cutler & Belt Maker to His Majesty. 68 St. James’ Street. London.” Richard Johnston held premises at this address from 1797 until his death in 1838. The sabre sheathes and draws smoothly and is held firmly within the scabbard.
This is a beautiful and scarce, highly curved flank officer’s sabre from the Peninsular and Napoleonic Wars period.
