Forte-épée des Gendarmes de la Garde du Roy

Forte-épée des Gendarmes de la Garde. This pattern of heavy cavalry sword was probably developed after the end of the Austrian Succession War, between 1750 and 1755.
Steel blade c. 90 cm long, engraved on one side with "GENDARMES DE LA GARDE DU ROY".
Guard of gilt brass shaped like a "coquille" or oyster shells, and pommel with palm leaves. Black leather scabbard with gilt brass fittings (throat with tang and tip). 
This sword - like the other patterns featured in our catalogue - have been specially developed to compliment the uniformed mannequin of the exhibition "La Maison du Roy", and are faithfully replicas of the original ones preserved in the Musée de l'Armée of Paris (see pics at bottom).
They are manufactured to the highest standard, wonderfully detailed, and are a fine addition to any serious collection, especially because the original ones are extremely rare and sold at prohibitive prices. They do not have a sharp edge or point, so can be bought without any licence.