Briquet short sword. Klingenthal, [France], January 1819. Blade engraved: "Manufre. Rale du Klingenthal Janv. 1819." Proof marks stamped to ricasso. Knuckle bow stamped "618". Scabbard leather stamped "225". Blade 23 in. Overall 28 15/16 in. 

A fine marked and dated example of a French briquet produced in Klingenthal, the "Valley of the Blades." The date and "Royale" designation indicate that it was produced during the reign of King Louis XVIII during the Second Bourbon Restoration. The handle is cast brass with a mellow patina. The leather scabbard is in good condition, with brass drag and throat present.

The briquet is an iconic blade of Revolutionary France. It was developed in 1767 to replace the longer grenadier sabers and was modified in 1801 under Napoleon. The nickname "briquet" was apparently earned due to its size compared to the more substantial cavalry sabers, with briquet being the French word for a "lighter" used to light campfires. This became the weapon's official name in 1806. Napoleonic infantry, artillery, and grenadier troops were provided with briquets.

Note: This lot cannot be packaged and shipped in-house. Successful bidders winning items marked as being packaged and shipped by a third-party service are responsible for paying the third party directly. We are happy to offer complimentary drop-off service to local third-party packing/shipping companies in Columbus, Ohio.

[Civil War, Union, Confederate] [Swords, Knives, Bowie Knives, Knife, Blades]