Presentation Saber with Scabbard

Manufactory Royal Arms Manufactory at Torre Annunziata Italian

ca. 1806–10

Not on view

This superb saber was made in the Royal Arms Manufactory at Torre Annunziata of Naples, following the city’s fall to Napoleon’s army in 1805. While the sword’s overall design is inspired by French models, the colorful combination of gilt bronze, polished steel, mother-of-pearl, and coral beads is uniquely Neapolitan. The crowned monogram on the grip refers to either the new king, Joseph Bonaparte (r. 1806–08), or his successor, Napoleon’s brother-in-law, Joachim Murat (r. 1808–14). This is the first sword of Neapolitan manufacture to enter The Met's collection.

Artwork Details

Title: Presentation Saber with Scabbard
Manufactory: Royal Arms Manufactory at Torre Annunziata (Italian, Naples, established 1757)
Date: ca. 1806–10
Geography: Naples
Culture: Italian, Naples
Medium: Steel, copper alloy, wood, gold, mother-of-pearl, coral
Dimensions: L. 37 in. (94 cm); Wt. 3 lb. 9.4 oz. (1627 g); L. of saber 36 5/8 in. (93 cm); L. of blade 30 3/4 in. (78.2 cm); W. of saber 5 5/8 in. (14.3 cm); Wt. of saber 1 lb. 10 oz. (737 g); L. of scabbard 31 6/8 in. (80.6 cm); W. of scabbard 2 1/2 in. (6.4 cm); Wt. of scabbard 1 lb. 15 oz. (890 g)
Classification: Swords
Credit Line: Russell Barnett Aitken and Irene Roosevelt Aitken Collection, Promised Gift of Irene Roosevelt Aitken, in celebration of the Museum's 150th Anniversary
Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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