October 30, 2019 The Collection of Steve & Marcy Hench
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/30/2019
This attractive Pennsylvania saber is photographed and described on page 52 of the 2010 exhibition catalog of "The Mannerbacks: Reading Master Silversmiths 1785 to 1870" by the Berks County Historical Society by Bill Bartley, where the sword was exhibited. The saber dates to about 1810 and features a slightly curved steel blade with wide shallow fuller on each side, original wool washer remains intact. Both sides engraved with gilt designs including a raised arm clenching a sword with the inscription "FOR MY COUNTRY", as well as the inscription "PENNSYLVANIA LIGHT DRAGONS(sic)" surrounded by foliate scrollwork. Spine inscribed "Wilhelm Tesche Peters Sohn in Solingen Suit". Fine hilt of solid silver with a rounded forward-curved quillon stamped with "W.M.B." cartouche for silversmith William Mannerback of Reading, Pennsylvania. Guard of two branches on right side with three connecting bars. Pommel cap and ferrule at base of grip are of multi-faceted design and integral backstrap is faceted as well. Wood grip is wrapped with whale baleen. CONDITION: Blade retains a spotted grey patina with some dark spots and minor areas of light pitting. Generous traces of gilt remain in lettering and engraving. Silver retains a dark patina in some areas while other areas are polished, maker's mark is excellent. Foremost counter-branch is original but has been re-attached, as is evident from inside the guard. Baleen grip with a minor loss at the front, otherwise very good. This is a very historic and fine saber, identified to a prominent Reading, Pennsylvania silversmith. PROVENANCE: William H. Guthman Collection. This sword was sold as lot 147 in the October 12, 2006 sale of "The William H. Guthman Collection, Part I" by Bonhams & Butterfields in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Complete with the publication featuring this sword from the Reading exhibit.