Lot 229
Waterloo Interest:An early 19th century sword stick, the white metal terminal engraved to the...
Monday 8 December 2014 | 10:00 | Lots: 591
Lot 229
Waterloo Interest:An early 19th century sword stick, the white metal terminal engraved to the...
Lot 229
Lot Description
Waterloo Interest:
An early 19th century sword stick, the white metal terminal engraved to the dome "William Swan" in cursive script, and to edge
"In the Field of Battle at WATERLOO
there I grew, and when under my shade
Wellington, Commanded, Boneparte [sic] FLED
18. June 1815. Cut by W.S., 1816 9th Sept."
The tiered shaft resembling a naval telescope, with brass sleeve to lower end and iron ferrule terminal, encasing a 30.75" (78cm) cylindrical 'sword' with hand-made screw thread, 36.5", (92cm) long overall.
Research has found a Sergeant Major William Swan, mentioned in War Office Records (69/62) of the Royal Horse Artillery, who fought against the French in India circa 1810 and was transferred "1st Jan 1814 5th Battalion, Gr. Swan, William ...to 5th...July 1814". It is possible that his experience in fighting the French in colonial battles led to his tactical redeployment at Waterloo.
Postage: Auction Default
Weight: No
Total lot weight: No
Condition Report
Silver cap is loose and has general dints, pitting etc commensurate with age.
Splits and evidence of regluing sections of shaft . Shrinkage means sword is now quite stiffly held within sheath.
Good patination.
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