Gothic Sword questions
 

A local museum in Ontario, Canada acquired this sword which was found in an old barn that was being torn down. I would appreciate any details on its possible origin, date or history.
It is believed to be from the 1810-1822 era We think it is called a Gothic Sword because the guard has curves on it like Gothic Architecture? It also has on it the Royal Cypher which is believed to be the monogram of the ruling monarch.

Hopefully someone can identify which monarch had that cypher. I think it
is George II but am not sure as he used an arabic 2 on his cyphers and the might be what the bottom of the cypher is below the crossed sword and baton ??

On the sword is the name Captain Robert James Stewart ------------------- no last name

Thanks

Jim

Hi Jim,
This is a very nice example 1822 pattern sword for Generals and Staff Officers, and the hilt styling is colloquially termed 'Gothic' for the pointed arches in the design motif which resemble those architectural features. The same form hilt appears on the M1822 cavalry and infantry officers swords, but in those the Royal cypher is in the cartouche.

With this pattern the crossed sword and baton appear as in this example. The scabbard on this would have been steel for dress and undress, but for full dress leather and gilt mounts.

While generals adopted the M1831 mameluke style sword, this pattern remained in use with the pipeback blade as seen on this one until 1845 for staff officers....then the Wilkinson type blade was adopted.

This sword presumably then would be post 1822, pre 1845.

Ref: Brian Robson "Swords of the British Army", 1975, London.
p.143, #159

All the best,
Jim

Thanks Jim

Much appreciated.

Jim

Hi Jim,
Is there a space where the last name should be?
Captain Robert James Stewart seems like a full name?

You bet Wing! :)

Interesting example, and these hilts invariably had the oval cartouche which as you have noted typically had the Royal cypher, mostly of course of Victoria Regina (VR), but also many variations like these with the symbolic baton and sword, some with regimental devices etc.

As Gene has noted it appears the officers full name is shown and if you contact the National Army Museum in London, they have archived records of officers and personnel which might give you service details.

All the best,
Jim