Original British Victorian Era Royal Artillery Officer’s Document Sabretache Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. A Sabretache, first known as a Hungarian TARSOLY, is a leather-covered board behind which a leather pocket for documents is located. The exposed facing is typically covered in magnificent gold and silver thread embroidery depicting the Monarch’s or Regimental Coat of Arms.

The term “HUSSAR” comes from the Hungarians whose 17th and 18th century cavalrymen inspired all of Europe. By the time of the Napoleonic Wars began almost every Nation in Europe had Light Cavalry “Hussar” Regiments.

The uniforms of the day were fabulous, ornate and very form fitting so pockets were not common or complimentary. Ever wonder why an Englishman sometimes carries his hanker-chief up his sleeve?

In order to preserve the Officer’s pleasing lines a “Sabretache” was issued to hang from his belt on the left side together with his sword to accommodate all paperwork. the back of the hard board forming a perfect writing surface when in the saddle. Sabretaches are greatly sought after and often sell for thousands of dollars depending on the regiment and the period of use.

What we offer here is only the decorated board, this one dating from Queen Victoria’s time and was worn by an Officer in the “ROYAL ARTILLERY”. It bears the complete Royal Artillery Regimental arms showing the Royal Cypher with Queen’s Crown over gilt brass Cannon insignia and the Regimental Motto amid lush embroidered foliage.

This is an ideal piece for hanging on the wall. It does not include the black leather pouch usually attached to the rear nor the hanging straps.

Absolutely genuine probably over 150 years of age, very hard to find at anything like a reasonable price in today’s market.

Measures approx 13 1/4 inches tall and 11 1/2 inches wide.