A rare French dagger of the Mamelouks de la Garde Impériale, Versailles, circa 1801Elegantly curved, double-edged blade with ridges on both sides, the base with etched manufacturer’s mark "Manufacture de Klingenthal" on the obverse and inscription "Coulaux Frères" on the reverse. Hilt of finely grained brown wood multiply fluted and trimmed with brass, the top finial with stamp "VERSAILLES" on one side. Smooth brass scabbard, on the obverse a drop-shaped suspension loop, the chase with arch décor and acceptance mark "JC". Blade somewhat stained/pitted in places, minor pressure marks at the hilt, traces of wear and age. Length 53.5 cm. Extremely rare, beautifully shaped dagger from a small elite unit of Napoleon that existed between 1801 and 1815.Condition: II