Decorative sword knot used for naval artillery volunteers

Datec 1890

Object number00033854

NameSword tassle

MediumSilver bullion, fabric thread

DimensionsOverall: 475 x 42 x 42 mm, 0.4 kg

ClassificationsArmament

Credit LineANMM Collection

Terms

DescriptionSword tassel used for naval artillery volunteers. Silver bullion, fabric thread. Decorative silver sword tassle has diagonal detail of blue fabric along the main string with a single loop.HistoryThis tassel was an accessory for swords that were designed exclusively for use at sea and developed in the late eighteenth century; by the mid-nineteenth century, cutlers and manufacturers were active in many English industrial centres, notably Birmingham. The Royal Navy produced the first regulation sword pattern in 1905, and throughout the nineteenth and early twentieth century these regulations were regularly revised. Officers usually carried swords when landed, and many preferred to maintain two swords: one for ceremonial use, and one for combat. By the early twentieth-century, swords were seldom used during boarding action, but were retained for ceremonial and presentation use. Sword knots and tassels were originally designed to be looped around the hand to avoid losing the sword in battle. As this function faded in significance, the knots became a decorative tradition.SignificanceNaval officer's swords and their accoutrements symbolise the pomp of naval officers' dress and are an important ceremonial aspect of naval life.