English Basket Hilt

Jim McDougall · 7th November 2021, 11:02 PM

That blade type would then place this in the 1620s at earliest into 1640s, as these kinds of backsword blades were prevalent on cavalry swords in that period and well through 18th c. The well known 'mortuary' swords were backswords, and swords worn by British cavalry units were as well.

I have not researched the hilt form, but seems typical of many 'dragoon' forms. The "British' units comprised of course of Scots and Irish used varied forms of basket hilt types, most fashioned in garrison towns by local artisans , some in London by several makers there.

Fascinating area of study (I've been hooked for years!) and VERY nice example!!!

7th November 2021, 11:02 PM	#9
Jim McDougall Arms Historian Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Route 66 Posts: 10,590	That blade type would then place this in the 1620s at earliest into 1640s, as these kinds of backsword blades were prevalent on cavalry swords in that period and well through 18th c. The well known 'mortuary' swords were backswords, and swords worn by British cavalry units were as well. I have not researched the hilt form, but seems typical of many 'dragoon' forms. The "British' units comprised of course of Scots and Irish used varied forms of basket hilt types, most fashioned in garrison towns by local artisans , some in London by several makers there. Fascinating area of study (I've been hooked for years!) and VERY nice example!!!