A French Napoleonic era sapper’s sword, or pioneer sword, early 19th Century.  Sappers were the combat engineers of the era, also know to be named pioneers since they were the first to go into enemy terrirtory alongside infantry and cavalry units in the Napoleonic wars clearing the way for the forces to move forward, building shelters and trenches, cutting down trees and dismantling enemy defenses. Heavy blade with patina, displaying a crowing Gallic rooster head pommel and brass crossguard embossed with lion and dog heads. The sword does not come with a scabbard. Length: 100 cm / 40 inches