Early French Dueling Foil, ca. 1790-1810, made by Decline - St. Etienne (Manufacture Nationale de St. Etienne). The hand guard is made in the classic Spanish style and is set at a slight angle from the blade for balance. The pommel, manufactured in brass, is in the form of a helmeted French knight in medieval armor, and the grip is square wood wrapped in black leather and tightly bound with braided wire. The 32 in. triangular blade was used only for thrusting and never sharpened, except at the tip. It is proofed at the 'Manufacture Nationale de St. Etienne' and was manufactured for and issued to the French Navy sometime between 1790-1810. It is lightly oxidized. Most dueling foils were never issued with any form of accompanying scabbard. However, many came with separately made and sometimes very ornate boxes. Neither is present.