US Eagle Pommel Infantry Officer’s Sword, ca. 1850

Description

Featuring gilt brass hilt, consisting of down-curved asymmetrical shell guard with spread-
wing eagle in low relief, small reverse shell-shaped quillon, and chain guard connecting to
the Widmann Type IV eagle-head pommel; reeded bone grip. Single-edged 29 1/2″ blade
with broad 2/3-length single fuller, the last 13″ double-edged; etched over its upper half with
scrolling foliage and stands of arms. Original brass scabbard with two carry rings, with
geometric and foliate decoration and frog stud; stamped “HORSTMANN”, with the number
“423″ on the reverse. William Widmann (178?-1848), was a German immigrant who came
to Philadelphia in 1816. Already trained as a sword cutler, with connections to the Solingen
blade market, he set up shop in Philadelphia, where he worked until his death in 1848.
After his death, his tooling and patterns were acquired by Philadelphia sword cutler William
H. Horstmann (1817-1893). This sword closely follows those produced earlier by Widmann.
Horstmann went on to be a major supplier of edged weapons to the Union during the Civil
War. Overall length 34 1/4″, not including scabbard. Very good complete and original
condition; with gilding remaining in protected areas, the balance with pleasing mustard
patina. Bone grip free from chips and cracks; blade with gunmetal gray patina, the etching
showing normal wear. Scabbard with a couple small, shallow dents.