Lot Essay
These swords were originally issued to the short lived Garde du Roi which was raised by decree of the National Assembly in 1791. Following the execution of Louis XVI and the disbandment of the Garde du Roi the swords were issued to musicians and sappers of the Gardes du Directoire et des Consuls. For further information see Michel Petard, Des Sabres et des Épées, Vol. III, 2005, pp. 113-4, photo 14