A BASKET-HILTED BRITISH MILITARY BACKSWORD

Details
A BASKET-HILTED BRITISH MILITARY BACKSWORD

CIRCA 1750

The blade double-edged at the point and with a fuller along the back on each face, struck on each face with a mark resembling an anchor, the brass hilt with guard of slender circular bars comprising four verticals separated by S-shaped bars between, bun-shaped pommel with button, and shagreen-covered wooden grip originally bound with wire, in tooled leather scabbard with iron mounts (rust patinated)
34¼in. (87cm.) blade

Lot Essay

The identity of the troops equipped with swords of this pattern, of which a number exist in England, is uncertain. A series of paintings by David Morier in the royal collection at Windsor Castle, however, shows a grenadier wearing a similar sword, though apparently with an iron hilt. For another example see A.R. Dufty, European Swords and Daggers in the Tower of London, 1974, pl. 69c

More from Arms & Armour

View All
View All