WW1 IMPERIAL GERMAN BAVARIAN DIPLOMATIC SWORD WWI

Beautiful issue sword of the Imperial German era, a Bavarian court or diplomatic sword. Bavarian Lion featured as its pommel figure and also the lion is seen in repose on the clamshell guard. The grips are inlaid mother of pearl. In 1805 under the Peace of Pressburg between Napoleonic France and the Holy Roman Empire, several duchies were elevated to kingdoms. The Wittelsbach rulers of Bavaria held the title “King of Bavaria” from 1806 until 1918. The Prince-elector of Bavaria, Maximilian IV Joseph, formally assumed the title King Maximilian I of Bavaria on the first of January 1806, but his “M” initial was often seen on various items such as swords in commemoration of his founding of the Bavarian diplomatic corps far beyond his actual reign. The sword probably dates in the period before the First World War. Blade still retains blue panels and fire gold gilding. Very Good