Basket Hilted Cavalry Backsword

Datec. 1740-1750

MediumIron, steel, wood, shagreen and leather.

DimensionsOverall: 40" Hilt: 6" Blade: 34"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number2005-315

DescriptionHilt: Of classic British/Scottish form, with a basket composed of panels (pierced with circles and hearts) and bars, a conical pommel, a scrolling wrist guard and a shagreen covered wooden grip.

Blade: Single edged and straight, with a narrow fuller running along the spine.
Label TextAlthough we don’t know anything about the 264 swords on the walls of the Palace in 1750, it can be assumed that a significant portion were for the same dragoons who carried the pistols and carbines displayed there. Later inventories bear this point out. With a full “basket” guard, this sword offers just the sort of hand-protection needed by the mid-18th c. dragoon, and is typical of what would have been carried at the time Virginia was equipping its horse soldiers.
MarkingsBoth faces of the blade struck with a large mark resembling an anchor.