1796 Young Ensigns Light Cavalry Officer Sabre by Osborns

A very attractive example of one of the most iconic swords, the 1796 Pattern Light Cavalry Officer's sabre.

This and the French Cuirassier's An XI sword are probably the most famous of the Napoleonic Wars. With its sweeping curve and wide blade and stirrup knuckleguard, it is easily recognisable and very elegant in design.

This one is typical of the officer pattern, with engraving, blueing and gilding to the blade, but is substantially shorter than the standard 32 - 33 inches in blade length. The blade is only some 27 inches long (68.5 cm) and was likely made for a young ensign (youth of 13 - 14 years of age) or for the young son of an officer, maybe serving in the Yeomanry.

The blade has the maker's name of OSBORNS, which were the designers of the sabre (John Le Marchant and Henry Osborn). On the other side is also engraved WARRANTED. The engraved decoration shows the Georgian Coat of Arms, Flags and Trophies and the GR cypher (George III).

The scabbard is made of thin steel and has been painted black at some point. It has evidence of light rust. The grip is made of leather covered wood, with twisted wire loops. Some are missing with age and wear. The sabre was found in walled up in an old house in Plymouth, during some renovation work. Nice piece of Napoleonic history.

Size: 84 cm (33 inches)
Weight: 1074 g