Prussian Senior Artillery Officer's Saber 1873 33rd Artillery Regiment

Prussian cavalry officer's saber,model 1873. The presence of the two suspension ring bracelets on the scabbard indicate early manufacture, since from 1910 onwards, the second strap waremoved during manufacture. Here, the ring holder has been modificated, and ring have been deliberately removed to comply with regulations after 1910.
The grip covered with fine ray skin (= stingray/ Galuschat) and silver wire binding, and the richly engraved blade suggest that this saber belonged to a senior officer.
The regimental markings are interesting, showing that this weapon has a military history and is not just a fantasy for officers. The scabbard and saber have the same regimental number: 5th Battalion of the 33rd Artillery Regiment. This regiment, also known as the 1st Lotharingian Regiment was part of the 33rd Field Artillery Division. Its headquarters were in Metz. It was equipped with18 horse-drawn cannons.
The 33rd Prussian Artillery Regiment took part in most of the major battles ofthe 1st World War: 1914, Battle of Longwy, Meuse, Marne  1915-1916 Forêt d'Argonne, 1917-1918 Battle of the Somme, and various actions in Champagne. (for details see 33rd division -German Empire on Grokipedia)
BLADE: This is a beautiful single-edged blade, which, after a 3.5 cm ricasso, has a wide, hollow edge two-thirds of the way through,. The last third of blade tapers to form a counter-edge at the back. The first 34 cm of the blade features etchings on the back and sides. On each side, there is an abundance of plant motifs and representations of various war trophees with spears, helmet, cannon, drums, swords, halberds and flags. These decorations are in very good condition. Blade length 87 cm Width 2.8 cm , thicknessto ricasso7mm
GUARD  : 2 half-ears facing the blade. The knuckle bowhas the characteristic "letter B" shape. In the center of the cross guard , we find the registration number :33.A.5.9 meaning: 33rd Artillery Regiment, 5thbattalion, 9th company
HANDLE: The grip is called "long-tail", the grip  is covered in shagreen, the hollows of which are highlighted by a twisted silver wire binfing.
SCABBARD  : steel. Two suspension bracelets,the farther one was modified after 1910 to leave only one suspension ring.  Serial number at scabbard entrance: 33.A.5.9
This saber is a fine example of a Prussian senior officer's weapon during the late 19th century and the Great War period. Its quality is well above the one  of troop sabers.
Ref C 26-36
Postage with insurance France 30€, Europe 40 €.