Officer's light cavalry sword, 1803 pattern, Austrian (c 1810)

Title	Officer's light cavalry sword, 1803 pattern
Nationality	Austrian
Period	c 1810

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This sword was carried throughout the latter end of the Napoleonic wars and on into the early 19th century until the unitary sabre was developed for cavalry in the mid-19th century. It appears to be very light and flimsy at first glance, but actually is a beautifully balanced weapon, quite capable of delivering a decent sword cut.

It is a much lighter weapon than the trooper's version and is distinguished from it also by the lack of bracelets across the scabbard to secure the hanging rings. It is also possible that senior sergeants were permitted to carry this as a walking out sword.

It has much of its original lead polish on the scabbard and hilt and virtually all of it on the blade. There is some minor surface rust, which has scarred the scabbard and hilt somewhat, but the active element has now been removed. The grip is leather bound over cord on wood and is in excellent shape with a little scuffing from age.

This sword rarely appears on the market, in England at least.

If you want to comment on this item—re quality, age, etc—please email me.

[Edged Weapons : Swords : Austrian : 19th Century]

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