Country of origin: France
Manufacturer: Châtellerault Arms Manufactory
Date of manufacture: July 1883
Model: M1882
Materials: steel, brass, wood, leather
Overall sword length: 106 cm
Blade length: 87 cm
The French Model 1882 light cavalry sword, with a blade dated July 1883. Manufactured at the Châtellerault Arms Manufactory, this example dates from the period of the French Third Republic and reflects late 19th-century efforts to standardize cavalry armament.
The M1882 model was developed for both light and heavy cavalry, using a common design with different blade lengths. Light cavalry swords were fitted with an 87 cm blade, those intended for dragoons with a 92.5 cm blade, and those for cuirassiers with a 95 cm blade. The blade length of this sword and the engraved inscription “Cavalerie légère” correspond to the light cavalry variant.
One of the model’s most distinctive features is its straight blade. This marked a change in light cavalry armament, which had previously been dominated by curved swords, including the Model 1822. At the same time, the three-bar brass guard, closely related to the earlier design, was retained. The M1882 therefore combines traditional features of French cavalry swords with new design solutions.
The Châtellerault Manufactory was established on 14 July 1819 by royal ordinance and was initially intended for the manufacture of edged weapons. The location was chosen for its favourable geographical position and its long-standing traditions of cutlery and metalworking, which provided access to skilled craftsmen. From the 1830s onward, the manufactory also began producing firearms.
The steel blade of this example features a longitudinal fuller. The hand is protected by a brass guard, while the wooden grip is covered with dark leather. Part of the twisted wire wrapping has survived. The sword is accompanied by a metal scabbard fitted with a single suspension ring.
An inscription preserved on the spine of the blade identifies the manufactory, the month and year of manufacture, and the model’s intended use. The guard is stamped with the number 19657 and additional markings. These markings provide specific information about the origin and dating of this particular example.
Condition: visible patina on the brass components, darkening and signs of wear on the blade and scabbard surfaces. The leather covering of the grip is cracked in places, and the wire wrapping survives only on part of the grip.
