VOLUNTEER OFFICER'S SABRE WITH THE "HYDRA OF LERNE Montmorency-style bronze mounting. Long-tailed cap with ram's head. Flat jointed bow from which a branch a branch forming the openwork shell. In the centre a helmeted cherub chasing a three-headed hydra a torch in one hand, the other resting on a shield on a shield bearing the words "CONSTITUTION De La FRANCE". At the junction between the jointed arch and the openwork top, a medallion in which is inscribed is inscribed "14 JUILLET FEDERATION De La France" on the other side on a banner reading "VIVRE LIBRE Ou MOURIR" ("Live Free or Die") surmounted by an empanached helmet. Rocket wood with brass filigree. Leather scabbard with two brass fittings. France, circa 1790. Total length with scabbard: 86 cm "Three examples decorated with the Lernaean Hydra are known. are known: one is in the Musée de l'Armée (inv.J 738), another in the Carnavalet Museum in Paris and the last in a private collection". explains Lhoste in his book "Les sabres portés par l'armée française", see Fig 705 and 705a. The last mentioned is certainly the one we are presenting here. PROVENANCE : - Roger de Montégudet collection (1880-1925) - by descent to this day.