Sword Knot
Datec 1900
Object number00019155
NameSword knot
MediumBlack, gilt cotton
DimensionsOverall: 30 x 485 x 30 mm, 0.03 kg
ClassificationsArmament
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionThis sword knot was acquired with a Royal Naval Reserve Officer's Sword dating to the early twentieth century, but the acorn knot itself is thought to be modern.HistoryThis knot 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.
New South Wales Naval Brigade
c 1890
