GUN FALL 2017
The live portion of this session begins on Tuesday, October 31, 2017.
UNIQUE CONFEDERATE CAVALRY OFFICER'S SABER POSSIBLY FOR THE PERSONAL USE OF A.B. GRISWOLD, "ORLEANS LIGHT HORSE" CAVALRY.This is the only example known of a Thomas, Griswold, New Orleans made light cavalry officer's saber. Beautiful etched blade, "A B G" etched on one ricasso opposite of makers mark and large panel in Old English script "O.L.H." (Orleans Light Horse). Other side of blade is etched in large 8" panel "RIGHT MAKES MIGHT". Rest of 23" etched panels are typical New Orleans style etched cotton bolls, floral and geometric motifs. When Mr. Donaldson found this sword in New Orleans in 1978, the family associated was named Pollack and Mr. Donaldson was able to research a Quartermaster Sgt. John F. Pollack who was in the Orleans Light Horse, but I do not understand why this sword does not bear his name, but only the initials of Arthur Breese Griswold who indeed was also an early member enlisting January 1, 1861. Regardless who carried this sword, it is a unique example of the finest New Orleanian cutlery skill. The original iron scabbard appears converted from a enlisted cavalry sword with throat removed by Griswold, wood-lined (to protect etching) and fitted with a standard Griswold brass throat seen on brass scabbarded heavy cavalry sabers which they are most famous for. I know of no reason Griswold's initials would be etched on this blade other than it being his personal saber or did the late Bill Osborn, renown New Orleans sword expert & collector. The Orleans Light Horse, Louisiana cavalry was an independent small organization, acting primarily as an elite escort company. A recent book written by the Historic New Orleans Collection, A Fine Body of Men: The Orleans Light Horse, Louisiana Cavalry 1861-1865 just recently published in 2015 by Donald Moriarty accompanies this lot. SIZE: PROVENANCE: The Confederate and Civil War estate collection of Fred Donaldson. CONDITION: Fine overall. 33" blade is gray overall with traces of orig luster with well discerned etching which can be seen in photos, though makers mark is weakly stamped on bottom. 5-1/2" of blade tip have been restored and almost indiscernible. Polished leather grip is 98% intact with several scuffs to high area and one chip. Twisted wire wrap is tight and complete. Decorated brass guard, pommel and throat have matching dark mustard/olive patina. Scabbard body has iron patina as found with a couple light dents. 52430-1 JS (20,000-25,000)