ANTIQUE BRITISH VICTORIAN 1822 PATTERN OFFICER'S SWORD SABRE OF FAMOUS GENERAL

Description: THE VICTORIAN 1822 PATTERN OFFICER'S SWORD PRESENTED BY SIR HENRY JAMES R.E. F.R.S & C. TO QUARTERMASTER JAMES MACDONALD, R.E. ON APPOINTMENT 1873with regulation pipe-backed blade etched with a crowned flaming grenade and Royal cypher on each face, and with the presentation inscription within a panel at the forte, regulation gilt-brass hilt, wire-bound fishskin-covered grip, in its steel scabbard. 81.2 cm bladeThis sword was a gift from the personal collection of Sir Henry James to his new Quartermaster upon appointment. Nice sword belonging to a known figure that contributed to British Military History Condition:Good, blade has spots of pitting and age patina. Please see pictures for detailed condition. General Sir Henry James Kt FRS MRIA FGS INFO: General Sir Henry James Kt FRS MRIA FGS (1803 – 1877) exemplified a distinguished career as a Royal Engineers officer, notably serving as the director-general of the Ordnance Survey, the esteemed British Government mapping agency, from 1854 to 1875. Revered for his contributions, Sir Henry's tenure was marked by a distinctive blend of eccentricity and expertise, earning him the agency's moniker as "perhaps Ordnance Survey's most eccentric and egotistical Director General." Born in 1803 at Rose in Vale, Mithian, Cornwall, to John James of Truro and Jane, daughter of John Hoskers, Sir Henry's upbringing imbued him with a foundation of intellectual curiosity and determination. Educated at a grammar school in Exeter, he later pursued studies at the Royal Military Academy, Woolwich, before embarking on his illustrious military journey. Commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Royal Engineers on 22 September 1826, Sir Henry ascended through the ranks, attaining the positions of captain in 1846 and Colonel in 1857. Sir Henry's association with the Ordnance Survey commenced in 1827, where he dedicated the majority of his career, predominantly in Ireland. After a brief stint at the Admiralty, he ascended to lead the Edinburgh Office of the Ordnance Survey in 1850, a position marked by controversy due to perceived nepotism facilitated by his father-in-law, Major General Edward Watson, RE. Married to Anne Emma Watson, daughter of Major General Edward Watson, RE, in 1845, Sir Henry's elevation to Director-General in 1854 heralded a new era of innovation and progress within the Ordnance Survey. Instrumental in the "battle of the scales," he advocated fervently for the adoption of the 1:2500 scale, despite resistance from superiors. Sir Henry's pioneering spirit was further evidenced by the establishment of a photography department within the Ordnance Survey in 1855, purportedly introducing the process of photozincography, although its actual invention is attributed to his staff. His leadership saw the publication of significant works, including a facsimile of the Domesday Book, earning international acclaim and prestigious honors such as knighthood in 1860 and membership in the Order of Isabella the Catholic in 1863. Even in retirement, Sir Henry's influence reverberated, leaving an indelible mark on the Ordnance Survey. Despite criticisms that surfaced post-retirement, Sir Henry's legacy endured, immortalized by plaques bearing his name adorning buildings constructed during his tenure. Sir Henry James passed away on 14 June 1877, at the age of 75, at his residence in Southampton, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and dedication that continues to inspire within the realms of cartography and historical preservation. British pattern 1822 Infantry Officer's Sword: The British pattern 1822 infantry officer's sword was the first of the "Gothic hilted" swords. The half-basket guard was also the first of its kind adopted by the British military. The P1822 was adopted with a pipe-back blade, popularised by John Prosser. In 1845, the pipe-back blade was dropped in favour of the new 1845 "Wilkinson" blade. Although the transition from pipe-back to Wilkinson blade would not have happened overnight, the sword can be confidently dated to post 1837 and pre-1845. The 818mm slightly curved, pipe-back blade ends in a quill point. The blade is highly polished with a single etched panel on each side containing the Royal cypher of Queen Victoria (1837-1901). The lack of additional etching indicates that this is an early Victorian sword as later models tended to be profusely etched. The original leather washer is present and the blade is in very good condition with some small areas of tarnish along the edge and spine. The barred brass guard has a folding section and bears an oval cartouche containing Queen Victoria's Royal cypher and the flowers of the union. The guard is in excellent condition, retaining its original gilding. The shagreen grip is also in excellent condition with the twisted and single strand wires intact and tight. The hilt's back strap has acanthus style decoration flowing into the stepped teardrop pommel with a flattened tang button.

Price: 2300 CAD

Location: Concord, Ontario

End Time: 2024-08-22T19:01:05.000Z

Shipping Cost: N/A CAD