ANTIQUE ARMS, ARMOR AND MILITARY DECORATIONS

A FINE FRENCH DIRK OR DAGGER WITH NAPOLEON'S BEE, 19TH CEN.

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Start price: $200

Estimated price: $300 - $400

Buyer's premium: 28%

Sales Tax: On buyer's premium only

French, first half of the 19th-century dagger with an etched flat-diamond section blade decorated with etching. The forte features the Star of David with Napoleon’s bee within it. Napoleon chose the bee as the emblem to represent his status as Emperor. Due to its industrious habits, the bee has come to symbolize hard work, diligence, industriousness, and orderliness. The grip is made of a polished faceted horn. The scabbard is made of leather with low-grade silver mounts. The crossguard is made of steel with flattened quillon terminals.

Dimensions: L: 9 7/8 in., (25 cm.)

Condition: Very good overall, blade is slightly pitted.