The French “Petit Montmorency” sabre was in service in the 1780s and rose in popularity during the French Revolution 1789-1799. During the Revolution these sabre were carried by most branches of the military, including local militias and the navy and were produced by many different manufacturers in a variety of styles.
The 788mm single-edged blade has a flat spine and terminates in a hatchet point. The slightly curved blade has a broad, shallow fuller with a deeper, narrow fuller below the spine, typical of the Montmorency style. The blade is in very good condition with a pale patina and a few small areas of darker tarnish and shallow pitting.
The service sharpened blade retains a fighting edge and is deeply engraved with Revolutionary motifs and mottoes. The blade engraving shows a crossed staff and frond, the staff topped with a Phyrgian cap. Phyrgian caps were widely worn and became a symbol of freedom and the pursuit of liberty during the French Revolution. Above this a cartouche contains the mottoes, “Vivre libre ou mourir,” (Live free or die) and “Pour la salut de ma patrie,” (For the salvation of my country). A warrior with a sword and shield containing the words “La Nation” is engraved above the mottoes.
The obverse of the blade shows an eagle fighting a lion. The lion is carrying a staff topped with a Phyrgian cap and represents the people of France. Above this, a ribboned banner contains the word “Liberte.” An engraving of a lady (liberty) holding a phyrgian cap and the sword of justice stands above. There are slight traces of gilding remaining within the engraving indicating that the blade would originally have been blue and gilt. An officer’s weapon.
The barred brass guard is in great condition and is typical of the petit Montmorency style of sword with a slotted front and s-shaped side bars. The pommel is in the style of a plumed helmet. The copper wire bound grip is in excellent condition with the original binding intact and tight. The blade is firm in the hilt.
This is a very good example of a rare French Revolution period sword in great condition and bearing revolutionary motifs and mottoes.
