RARE CONFEDERATE FOOT OFFICER’S SWORD MADE BY PRADEL OF NEW ORLEANS.

RARE CONFEDERATE FOOT OFFICER’S SWORD MADE BY PRADEL OF NEW ORLEANS. There are few swords known marked by this Antebellum cutler. Pradel is listed in New Orleans city directories prior to the war as a cutler and surgical tool maker. A few fine Bowie knives are known by him. The only known swords by him are foot officer’s such as this. Pradel has a distinctive long ricasso as seen here. Of the two other specimens we have studied, both had evidence of a very light blade etch with no discernible text. This sword is similar, but has one etched panel is readable that says “BEAUREGARD RIFLES”. There were several militia units with that name from the deep South early in the war. The hilt on this sword exhibits typical New Orleans manufacturing characteristics such as undecorated sides to the quillon, though the top of this quillon is decorated. The pommel shows a distinct cast central line, also typical of New Orleans. Spiral carved grip is covered with black-dyed leather and two strands of twisted brass wire. As can be seen in photos, most of the original gilt is retained on the hilt. The accompanying scabbard fits sword quite well but appears to be a replacement. CONDITION: Blade is gray, showing old cleaning, staining and pitting. Old sharpening on the cutting edge. Leather grip wrap is mostly intact with some chipping and wear to high spots, exposing wood in a couple areas. One strand of the double wire is broken in the top loop. Hilt exhibits 80% original gilt and pommel maybe 50% original gilt. The attached sword knot is frayed and has an old string repair around tassel. The accompanying scabbard is overall solid with much flaking and chipping to body and has been redyed black. Scabbard mounts retain strong traces of gilt finish. The drag is missing its retaining screw. 4-40698 JS30 (8,000-12,000)

Auction: Firearms - Fall 2010

Please Note: All prices include the hammer price plus the buyer’s premium, which is paid by the buyer as part of the purchase price. The prices noted here after the auction are considered unofficial and do not become official until after the 46th day.

Image	Lot	Price	Description
	2347	$10,350.00	RARE CONFEDERATE FOOT OFFICER’S SWORD MADE BY PRADEL OF NEW ORLEANS. There are few swords known marked by this Antebellum cutler. Pradel is listed in New Orleans city directories prior to the war as a cutler and surgical tool maker. A few fine Bowie knives are known by him. The only known swords by him are foot officer’s such as this. Pradel has a distinctive long ricasso as seen here. Of the two other specimens we have studied, both had evidence of a very light blade etch with no discernible text. This sword is similar, but has one etched panel is readable that says “BEAUREGARD RIFLES”. There were several militia units with that name from the deep South early in the war. The hilt on this sword exhibits typical New Orleans manufacturing characteristics such as undecorated sides to the quillon, though the top of this quillon is decorated. The pommel shows a distinct cast central line, also typical of New Orleans. Spiral carved grip is covered with black-dyed leather and two strands of twisted brass wire. As can be seen in photos, most of the original gilt is retained on the hilt. The accompanying scabbard fits sword quite well but appears to be a replacement. CONDITION: Blade is gray, showing old cleaning, staining and pitting. Old sharpening on the cutting edge. Leather grip wrap is mostly intact with some chipping and wear to high spots, exposing wood in a couple areas. One strand of the double wire is broken in the top loop. Hilt exhibits 80% original gilt and pommel maybe 50% original gilt. The attached sword knot is frayed and has an old string repair around tassel. The accompanying scabbard is overall solid with much flaking and chipping to body and has been redyed black. Scabbard mounts retain strong traces of gilt finish. The drag is missing its retaining screw. 4-40698 JS30 (8,000-12,000) Auction: Firearms - Fall 2010 Please Note: All prices include the hammer price plus the buyer’s premium, which is paid by the buyer as part of the purchase price. The prices noted here after the auction are considered unofficial and do not become official until after the 46th day.

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