Cavalry Sword

A cavalry sword and cleaned scabbard on black background.

Identification

  • Object Type: Cavalry sword
  • Date: Late 1800’s
  • Origin: England
  • Owner: Private
  • Maker: Unknown. Manufacturer’s mark ‘B’ indicates Birmingham. Sword maker Mr. Reeves and his son possibly
  • Measurements: 
    • Sword length: 97 cm
    • Scabbard length: 87 cm
  • Materials: Sword: iron, leather. Scabbard: iron, wood

Summary

This cavalry sword was likely manufactured between 1885-1889, as the cross on the guard and shape of the sword matches the style of the time. It belonged to an infantryman of the Black Watch, who was wounded at Passchendaele in 1917 during the First World War, he then moved to Horse Artillery. The blade is slightly curved, which was typical for cavalry swords as it allowed for flexibility of slashing/lunging movements. The interior of the scabbard is lined with wood, which was also typical at this time. 

Behind the Scenes

A cavalry sword and rusted scabbard on black background.
Sword and Scabbard before treatment.
A cavalry sword and cleaned scabbard on black background.
Sword and Scabbard after treatment.

The conservator who treated this object is Holly, click on the profile to learn more.

Note: All images were taken by the conservator unless stated otherwise.

Holly, a white person in their early twenties with shoulder length red hair. She is looking to her right with a slight smile and wearing a grey button up with golden paisley designs. The photo is in black and white.

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Click on the image to learn more.

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Front view of the maker’s cab plate before conservation treatment. Visible loses to original surface coatings, areas of corroded iron, surface soiling and stains. Colour and scale reference card included.
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