French & Indian War Sword/Dagger?

[Jim McDougall]

Originally Posted by murph21

Thanks again Jim for this very interesting info! This does make sense to me. I saw another very similar blade and engraving online (some of exact stylistic engraving graphics/patterns to my newbie eye) and I think it was advertised as a Parisian made blade. But France for sure it seems. I am a brand new collector and my interests are weapons used in the Revolutionary War. This forum is fascinating and interesting. I have a couple more and a bayonet I will post to try to get thoughts on. Thanks again!

'Newbie' ? coulda fooled me! You have a pretty discerning eye for someone new at this. With these motifs using these astral, oriental and occult symbols and devices many were familiarly used by French engravers in Nantes in the 18th century, they of course often were on English blades as well. Most of this type motif was actually taken largely from this style engraving on blades of Eastern Europe. A great reference you might look into is "Hunting Weapons" by Howard Blackmore, 1972. While its focus is of course on 'hunting arms', these weapons often found use in other contexts (such as these hangers) and set the pace for blade decoration on other forms.

Looking forward to you sharing your other examples, as well as your advance into others................ONWARD!!!

All best regards,
Jim