Item No. 3848676

An intriguing French Model 1831 pattern foot artillery short sword with scabbard. While modeled directly on the classic French model, this specific example features a distinct commercial or militia import configuration—combining a full-sized brass hilt with a noticeably lighter, narrower blade. The solid cast-brass hilt measures a standard 3 3/4” across the crossguard, featuring the classic ringed grip and distinctive quillon finials unique to the M1831 pattern. The double-edged steel blade measures 17 1/2” long (22 1/2” overall) with a narrow 1 1/8” width at the ricasso, significantly lighter than the heavy 1 3/4” regulation French issue. The ricasso is completely plain and free of French state arsenal inspection stamps.

This likely was a commercially produced European sword imported to the United States for militia use prior to the Civil War. The original black leather scabbard remains in good condition with expected surface crazing and age wear, complete with both of its original brass fittings.