[SWORDS OR SABERS]. Sabre du Sappeur de la Garde Impériale. [France, ca. 1812]. This weapon is one of the most visually stunning sabres of the French Army under Napoleon. Whole length of sword and hilt, approximately 36”. Scabbard length approximately 30”. With its massive screaming rooster pommel, solid brass hilt and lion headed quillion, it is perfectly sheathed in its original brass and leather scabbard. In fact, the scabbard itself is formidable with a solid weight almost equal to the saber. The thick saw blade is engraved below the hilt “a Klingenthal” and on the reverse “Coulaux Freres.” The Inspector stamps CF and of Francois Ducret establishes the date from the 1810-1812 period when the rooster headed sabres were carried by the Sapeurs of the Imperial Guard. Light rubbing, occasional soiling to blade, leather on scabbard with a crack on one side. Fine. Rare and exceptional.