Bavarian Cavalry Sword, M.1891 - presentation piece

[Fritz]

An almost perfect example of a presentation weapon, a Bavarian Kavallerie-Pallasch M.1891. Followng the patern of standardisation of the weapons under Prussian leadership, this was based on the Prussian Kavallerie-Degen M.1889. This example, being a private purchase presentation piece, has the scabbard with only one suspension ring as per 1908 regulations, but still retains the old nickel plating, which was supposed to be later blackened. The weapon is by it's souvenir character engraved and attibuted to the Bavarian 2. Chevaulegers-Regiment "Taxis", being in honour of the "Prinz von Turn und Taxis" , this regiment based in Regensburg. The handguard bears the Bavarian lion with sword and shield with the Bavarian "lozenge pattern" or "Rautenmuster". This weapon is solely a souvenir of "my service" as indicated on reverse of blade - "Zur Erinnerung an meine Dienstzeit", undoubtedly a farewell presentation, to someone leaving the regiment. The blade is by W.K.& Co., the reverse side shows the supplier's mark: J.G.Merz.

The remains of the coloured felt washer are still present, moth damage, the colour is here a carmesin red, as per the regtl. facings. The bakelite grips have been repaired in recent days (glued with Sekundenkleber, almost unnoticeable), otherwise near to perfect. Purchased, early 2005 from a well-known dealer in Hamburg. The item had just arrived in from the U.S.A. (again U.S.A. - they really plundered Bavaria after 1945). The KD 89 and Bav.KD 91 all had iron fittings, this example as private purchase, has all fittings in fine nickel-silver.