The French inscription translates to
"Music Bazaar"
"Istanbul-Galata"
Galata is a district in Istanbul that lies on the Golden Horn directly across from old Constantinople. Historically it was home to the Venetians during the Byzantine Empire. During the late stages of the Byzantine Empire, a massive chain stretched from Constantinople to Galata across the harbor entrance that blocked unwanted intruders. Potential invaders had to go around the blockade if they wanted to attack the city from the north, or approach from the south or inland.
Sorry, can't help with the period of the sword.
Ian
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