Smiths Arms and Armour

Description

The above French model M1833 Cutlass has the sweeping upturned blade (called a falchion), a single wide fuller and the open cup hilt which is made of iron. This cutlass would have had its entire hilt (grip, guard, closed cage and pommel) coated in a heavy black japanning to protect the metal from rusting - there are only remnants remaining on this particular piece.
Markings: The anchor lightly engraved on the above blade near the ricasso on boats sides indicate it was a naval weapon. On the spine, engraved CHATELLERAULT Juine 1847" (Royal Manufacturer, Chatellerault, June 1847) giving the royal arsenal and date of manufacture. Both sides of ricasso marked one side is with the numbers 1 and 3, the otherside a couple of maker marks, cartouche/ poincon.