A Crimean & Zulu War Original 1821/45 Pattern Victorian Wilkinson Infantry Officer’s Deluxe Grade Combat Sword. Traditional Gothic Style Pierced Half Basket Hilt With Queen Victoria’s Cypher. Exactly As Worn By Lt Bromhead. Of a 57th Regt. Of Foot Officer

Commissioned from Wilkinson sword in late 1854, delivered in early 1855, for an officer of the 57th Foot, the West Middlesex Regiment, Lt. Alexander F. A. Slade, while serving in the Crimean War, at Sebastopol, then, much later it was further used in the regiment in the Zulu War, in the Battle of Gingindlovu. Lt Slade later became a Captain {by purchase} in 1859, while then serving in India. We acquired the sword with a complete set of Kinglake, A.W., “The Invasion of the Crimea: Its Origin, and an Account of its Progress to the Death of Lord Raglan”. Including Ist Editions.

Exactly the same form of sword used by Lt Bromhead in the Zulu war, as was portrayed and carried in the film 'Zulu' by Sir Michael Caine. A fully etched blade, bearing the cypher and crest of H.M. Queen Victoria, traditional Gothic pieced half basket hilt, combined combat-dress steel scabbard. Combat weight, fully etched VR Crown blade. Monogrammed hilt

In the gallery is photograph of a group of five officers from the 57th Regiment. The officers are arranged in a line, with one man seated and the rest standing. All are wearing military uniform and are carrying the very same swords. A dog lies on the ground in front of them and there is a tent behind. It is perfectly possible Lt. Slade is one of the officer's within the photo.

The 57th Regiment served during the Crimean War, and whilst there were photographed on a number of occasions by Roger Fenton {see photo}.

The 57th (West Middlesex) Regiment of Foot: Participated in major Crimean battles (Alma, Inkerman, Sevastopol) and also served in the Zulu War.

Arrival: The 57th landed in Natal in March 1879, joining the effort to relieve the besieged garrison at Eshowe.
Battle of Gingindlovu (April 2, 1879): They formed part of the relief force, holding the laager's right flank and repelling attacks, earning commendation from Lord Chelmsford for their steadiness under intense fire.
Second Invasion: Afterward, they marched with Crealock's Division, advancing along the coast, burning Zulu homesteads, and forming part of the force that occupied Ulundi.

Traditional gilt hilt of Gothic form, pierced with Queen Victoria's cypher

Photo in the gallery from the film "Zulu" and Michael Caine as Bromhead with his sword for information only not included.
The 1822/45 pattern of sword has a Gothic hilt and Queen Victoria's cypher within the pierced oval centre. This sabre would have seen service by an officer at the very cusp of England's Glory of Empire. A sabre fit to represent the age and used throughout the Zulu War and numerous other great and famous conflicts of the Victorian era. The 1822 pattern infantry with it's elegant pierced Gothic style hilt, and the graceful monogram of Queen Victoria make it one of the most attractive patterns of sword ever used by British Army officers, and it was a pattern that saw service for almost 80 years. The blade is by Henry Wilkinson, who developed in 1845 pattern blade. Many swords of British officers were continually used for many decades, until the 1890's in fact, as swords were quite often passed on from father to son, down the generations, in many military families. During the period of this sword's use, two of most famous pair of engagements in the British army's history, during the last quarter of the 19th century, happened over two consecutive days. Curiously, it is fair to say that these two engagements, by the 24th Foot, against the mighty Zulu Impi, are iconic examples of how successful or unsuccessful leadership can result, in either the very best conclusion, or the very worst. And amazingly, within only one day of each other. The 1879 Zulu War, for the 24th Foot, will, for many, only mean two significant events, Isandlhwana and Rorke's Drift. This is the brief story of the 24th Foot in South Africa; In 1875 the 1st Battalion arrived in Southern Africa and subsequently saw service, along with the 2nd Battalion, in the 9th Xhosa War in 1878. In 1879 both battalions took part in the Zulu War, begun after a British invasion of Zululand, ruled by Cetshwayo. The 24th Foot took part in the crossing of the Buffalo River on 11 January, entering Zululand. The first engagement (and the most disastrous for the British) came at Isandhlwana. The British had pitched camp at Isandhlwana and not established any fortifications due to the sheer size of the force, the hard ground and a shortage of entrenching tools. The 24th Foot provided most of the British force and when the overall commander, Lord Chelmsford, split his forces on 22 January to search for the Zulus, the 1st Battalion (5 companies) and a company of the 2nd Battalion were left behind to guard the camp, under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Henry Pulleine (CO of the 1/24th Foot).

The Zulus, 22,000 strong, attacked the camp and their sheer numbers overwhelmed the British. As the officers paced their men far too far apart to face the coming onslaught. During the battle Lieutenant-Colonel Pulleine ordered Lieutenants Coghill and Melvill to save the Queen's Colour—the Regimental Colour was located at Helpmakaar with G Company. The two Lieutenants attempted to escape by crossing the Buffalo River where the Colour fell and was lost downstream, later being recovered. Both officers were killed. At this time the Victoria Cross (VC) was not awarded posthumously. This changed in the early 1900s when both Lieutenants were awarded posthumous Victoria Crosses for their bravery. The 2nd Battalion lost both its Colours at Isandhlwana though parts of the Colours—the crown, the pike and a colour case—were retrieved and trooped when the battalion was presented with new Colours in 1880.

The 24th had performed with distinction during the battle. The last survivors made their way to the foot of a mountain where they fought until they expended all their ammunition and were killed. The 24th Foot suffered 540 dead, including the 1st Battalion's commanding officer.

After the battle, some 4,000 to 5,000 Zulus headed for Rorke's Drift, a small missionary post garrisoned by a company of the 2/24th Foot, native levies and others under the command of Lieutenant Chard, Royal Engineers, the most senior officer of the 24th present being Lieutenant Gonville Bromhead. Two Boer cavalry officers, Lieutenants Adendorff and Vane, arrived to inform the garrison of the defeat at Isandhlwana. The Acting Assistant Commissary James Langley Dalton persuaded Bromhead and Chard to stay and the small garrison frantically prepared rudimentary fortifications.

The Zulus first attacked at 4:30 pm. Throughout the day the garrison was attacked from all sides, including rifle fire from the heights above the garrison, and bitter hand-to-hand fighting often ensued. At one point the Zulus entered the hospital, which was stoutly defended by the wounded inside until it was set alight and eventually burnt down. The battle raged on into the early hours of 23 January but by dawn the Zulu Army had withdrawn. Lord Chelmsford and a column of British troops arrived soon afterwards. The garrison had suffered 15 killed during the battle (two died later) and 11 defenders were awarded the Victoria Cross for their distinguished defense of the post, 7 going to soldiers of the 24th Foot.

The stand at Rorke's Drift was immortalised in the 1964 movie Zulu, and Michael Caine is carrying this very same pattern of sword.

Overall in nice condition, triple wire bound sharkskin grip, steel combat scabbard with light surface old russetting and two small combat dents at the bottom near the shoe. Blade nicely royal etched with old polished out bright surface russetting.  read more

Code: 26087

Bachelors Anonymous. Ist Edition. Publisher’s Cloth and Dustwrapper. 1973; Wodehouse, P.G. -

This volume was sent to the Hawkins family as a gift from Her Late Majesty, Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, who used to engage in conversations with Mark and David Hawkins’ grandfather, whom she met years before at an antiques fair and exhibition in London.

They often discussed together their mutual love of the works of P.G.Wodehouse, Her Majesty’s favourite author.

This volume was sent by her majesty as a gift to the family after it was published in 1973, when their grandfather died.

From the family archive collection.  read more

Code: 26089

An Original, Rare, Anno Domini 4th Century. Original Roman Legionary's 'Spartha' Sword. An Amazing & Rare Historical Sword of The Roman Empire. Almost Identical To Those Discovered In The Nydam Treasure Horde of Nordam Mose in Denmark

We are always delighted to be able to offer original ancient and medieval swords for our clients, especially Roman swords, as they are so iconic of the Imperial Roman age. In fact, most likely, the legionaries sword is most famous historical artifact of the largest imperial civilisation of ancient history.

A superb original Roman spatha, circa anno domini 300, a most rare and a highly collectable original weapon of the ancient Roman Empire. A contemporary original sword to the the Nydam Treasure Horde of Nordam Mose in Denmark, a Roman sword cache, and the form of sword said to be connected to the legendary sword of Beowulf.

During the Second Punic War, 218 to 201 B.C {ante Christum natum} Celtic mercenaries introduced the spatha sword form to the Roman army. Originally the spatha was a weapon used by the Roman cavalrymen, while the auxiliaries and legionaries used the gladius form of sword instead. However eventually, the Roman infantry would adopt the spatha in the anno domini 2nd century . It was a very versatile sword, undergoing many changes from its origins in Gaul to its usage in the Roman military.

To look at what an Emperor's military attire looked like in the anno domini 5th century , we mostly have to look to the Diptych of Emperor Honorius, which does show an Eagle-hilted sword, but on another panel he wears a Germanic-derived Spatha just as this one.

This Romano Germanic style, to our best evidence, were the ones the Roman legions and their Emperors of the Empire were largely and mostly using in the anno domini 5th century , but certainly many were used in the three centuries before.

The spatha was a type of straight and long sword, measuring between 0.5 and 1 m (19.7 and 39.4 in), with a handle length of between 18 and 20 cm (7.1 and 7.9 in), in use in the territory of the Roman Empire during the AD 1st to 6th centuries . Later swords, from the 7th to 10th centuries, like the Viking swords, are recognisable derivatives and sometimes subsumed under the term spatha.

The Roman spatha was used in war and in gladiatorial fights. The spatha of literature appears in the Roman Empire in the AD 1st century as a weapon used by presumably Celtic auxiliaries and gradually became a standard heavy infantry weapon, relegating the gladius to use as a light infantry weapon. The spatha apparently replaced the gladius in the front ranks, giving the infantry more reach when thrusting. While the infantry version had a long point, versions carried by the cavalry had a rounded tip that prevented accidental stabbing of the cavalryman's own foot or horse.

Archaeologically many instances of the spatha have been found in Britain and Germany. It was used extensively by Germanic warriors. It is unclear whether it came from the Pompeii gladius or the longer Celtic swords, or whether it served as a model for the various arming swords and Viking swords of Europe. The spatha remained popular throughout the Migration Period. It evolved into the knightly sword of the High Middle Ages by the 12th century.
This Roman sword would date from the era of Emperor Valentinian I. He was Roman emperor from anno domini 364 to 375. Upon becoming emperor, he made his brother Valens his co-emperor, giving him rule of the eastern provinces. Valentinian retained the west.

During his reign, Valentinian fought successfully against the Alamanni, Quadi, and Sarmatians. Most notable was his victory over the Alamanni in anno domini 367 at the Battle of Solicinium. His general Count Theodosius defeated a revolt in Africa and the Great Conspiracy, a coordinated assault on Roman Britain by Picts, Scots, and Saxons. Valentinian was also the last emperor to conduct campaigns across both the Rhine and Danube rivers. Valentinian rebuilt and improved the fortifications along the frontiers, even building fortresses in enemy territory.

He founded the Valentinianic dynasty, with his sons Gratian and Valentinian II succeeding him in the western half of the empire.

In early anno domini 368, Rando, a barbarian chieftain, fell unexpectedly on the town of Moguntiacum (modern Mainz) on the Rhine, and put the defenceless inhabitants to the sword, before retiring over the river. Valentinian, furious, now determined to anticipate their future depredations by a campaign into their own territory beyond the Rhine. Count Sebastian was deputed to encircle the enemy from the south, by way of Rhaetia, while the emperor himself advanced with the entire forces of the west from Gaul. Finding their arms inadequate for the defence of their fields and villages, the Alemans retreated into the mountains, erecting their camp on an unidentified hill referred to as "Solicinium", in the area of Württemberg.

It is reported that the emperor, while on a personal reconnaissance of the enemy position on the lower reaches of the mountain, was nearly captured by an advanced party of the enemy who had been placed in ambuscade, losing his helmet and standard-bearer while retreating.

The battle
There is little known about the actual battle. It appears that Valentinian carried their defences by a general assault, charging up the slope, and the barbarians, when they were ejected from the summit, were driven down the opposite side of the hill into the clutches of Sebastian, who had been placed in their rear to anticipate the retreat. The result was the total defeat of the Alemans.

The next mention of spathae is in the anno domini 5th century, by Vegetius, now as a weapon carried by infantry. The term "Roman Iron Age" refers approximately to the time of the Roman Empire in north Europe, which was outside the jurisdiction of the empire, but, judging from the imported Roman artifacts, was influenced by Roman civilization. One source of artifacts from this period are the bogs of Schleswig, Holstein and Denmark. Objects were deliberately broken and thrown into the bog in the belief that they could go with a deceased chief on his voyage to a better place.

A cache of 90 swords was found at Nydam Mose in Denmark in 1858. They were in the form of the spatha and therefore have been classified as "Roman swords". They are dated to the AD 3rd to 4th centuries. Many connect the Nydam cache with the sword of Beowulf, who was supposed to be a contemporary. See a photo of these Roman treasure horde swords in the gallery.

As with almost all original ancient Roman steel weaponry recovered in the past two hundred years or so, such as daggers and swords, their hilts do not survive and are effectively non existent today. this is due their crossguards, grips, pommels, and scabbards being almost entirely made of organic material, thus only the blades and their hilt’s tangs of the swords and daggers still exist, are the only parts of the whole weapon to survive the ravages of time till today.
The surface of this superb sword is heavily pitted, but that is absolutely usual with all recovered original Roman swords from the ancient times, see the photo in the gallery of the Nydam cache, but the blade is still remarkably sound.

The discoveries at Nydam Bog originate from so-called spoils-of-war sacrifices. The weapons comprise swords and shields, spears and lances, axes, bows and arrows. The warriors’ personal equipment and possessions were also sacrificed.
The swords, spearheads and bronze shield fittings were from the beginning of the 3rd century AD. They were found in a boundary zone between two of Engelhardt’s excavation sites. Nydam Bog is situated in Oester Sottrup, Sundeved, eight kilometres from Soenderborg. The bog, which in the Iron Age was a sacred lake, is renowned for its rich sacrificial finds from the period A.D 200-400 . "The Nydam Boat" is the most famous of the finds, and is on display at Gottorp Castle in Slesvig.

It come complete with a fine, carved wooden stand, see photo gallery but would also look stunning if bespoke framed.

Approximately 30.2 inches long overall.

Every single item from The Lanes Armoury is accompanied by our unique Certificate of Authenticity. Part of our continued dedication to maintain the standards forged by us over the past 100 years of our family’s trading, as Britain’s oldest established, and favourite, armoury and gallery


Interest in the archaeology of Nydam Bog has always been particularly lively in the local area. The Nydam discoveries were and remain a significant theme in the relationship between Danish and German/Romano cultures in the border region.

On this basis, the “Society for Nydam Research” – commonly known as the Nydam Society - was formed in 1983. Through its work, this interest group has contributed to the resumption of National Museum of Denmark’s investigation of the bog.
His Royal Highness Prince Joachim of Denmark is patron of the Nydam Society.  read more

Code: 24421

Stunningly Beautiful, Museum Piece. Original Scythian Warrior's Helmet. Made & Used From the 6th Century BC, to The Battles Against Alexander the Great, Until the 3rd Century AD, The Scythian Women Warriors Are Believed To Be The Original Amazons

A bronze 'Illyrian' variant helmet, used by the so called 'barbarian' warriors, both men and women, that Herodotus classed as Amazons, that fought Darius The Great of Persia in 512bc, Alexander the Great of Macedon in 329bc, and both the Legions of the Roman Republic, and later, the Legions of the Roman Empire.

With a traditional domed skull and carination to the rear, a row of perforations to the rim around the face, and a flared neck-guard; Weight 396 grams, 26cm (10 1/4"). Fine condition, some overall aged restoration.

From the realm of the ancient Scythian warriors of ancient history that uniquely fought alongside their female warriors. The Scythian women were as famous as warriors, in fact as much as we’re the Scythian men, it is said the legend of the Amazonian warriors is entirely based on the Scythian women warriors. Herodotus provides the first detailed description of the Scythians. He classes the Cimmerians as a distinct autochthonous tribe, expelled by the Scythians from the northern Black Sea coast. Herodotus also states that the Scythians consisted of the Auchatae, Catiaroi, Traspians, and Paralatae or "Royal Scythians".

For Herodotus, the Scythians were outlandish barbarians living north of the Black Sea. In 512 BC, when King Darius the Great of Persia attacked the Scythians, he allegedly penetrated into their land after crossing the Danube. Herodotus relates that the nomadic Scythians frustrated the Persian army by letting it march through the entire country without an engagement In 329 BC Philip's son, Alexander the Great, came into conflict with the Scythians at the Battle of Jaxartes. A Scythian army sought to take revenge against the Macedonians for the death of Ateas, as they pushed the borders of their empire north and east, and to take advantage of a revolt by the local Sogdian satrap. However, the Scythian army was defeated by Alexander at the Battle of Jaxartes. Alexander did not intend to subdue the nomads: he wanted to go to the south, where a far more serious crisis demanded his attention. He could do so now without loss of face; and in order to make the outcome acceptable to the Saccae, he released the Scythian prisoners of war without ransom in order to broker a peace agreement. This policy was successful, and the Scythians no longer harassed Alexander's empire.

Although the classical Scythians may have largely disappeared by the 1st century BC, Eastern Romans continued to speak conventionally of "Scythians" to designate Germanic tribes and confederations or mounted Eurasian nomadic barbarians in general: in AD 448 two mounted "Scythians" led the emissary Priscus to Attila's encampment in Pannonia. The Byzantines in this case carefully distinguished the Scythians from the Goths and Huns who also followed Attila. Their women, after all, were trouser-wearing, horse-riding warriors, Amazons, according to Herodotus. In his Histories, the Amazons sleep with the Scythian men but refuse to cohabit with the existing Scythian women because they are not outdoorsy enough. The Amazons therefore set off with their Scythians to establish a new people.

The next known event from Scythian history is the campaign of Alexander the Great's general, Zopyrion, which took place in 331/30 BC and was directed against the Getae and the Scythians (Just., Epit., 12.1, 4). The Macedonian army of 30,000 men reached Olbia and laid siege to it, but was unable to take it and was completely routed by the Scythians. Zopyrion himself met his death.

One other Scythian king of the 4th century BC mentioned in the sources was Agaros, who had probably taken part in the internecine war between the sons of the Bosporan king Pairisades in 310/9 on the side of Satyros II; after his defeat, Satyros's son Pairisades sought refuge with Agaros. He was probably king of those Scythians who dwelt in the Crimean steppes immediately adjacent to the Bosporus.The helmet appears to have been made originally on the Corinthian model with close-fitting skull, lateral cheek-plates and projecting nasal. At some point in its combat history, it has been modified, while retaining the undulating brow profile. The perforated leading edge may have been for permanent attachment of an organic padded liner. Beyond the scope of inspired workmanship, by 5th century BC, many of the Scythian kings and nobles also opted for 'foreign' styled Greek helmets and greaves, possibly as a show of prosperity. Archaeological excavations that pertain to this period have unearthed over 60 fascinating specimens of Greek helmets (of Corinthian, Chalcidian, and Attic types) that were actually manufactured in mainland Greece and then shipped across the Black Sea into Scythian heartland via the wealthy Greek Bosporan colonies. The ancient scope in itself mirrored a wide-ranging trade network that not only entailed arms and military equipment but also slaves. Furthermore, the Scythians themselves exported profitable items like grain, wheat, flocks, and even cheese to Greece. From examination the front nasal section has been considerably restored. It has been sometime in the past extensively, though nicely, fully cleaned overall, during conservation a small supporting interior patch has been applied at the nasal area. Helmets from this era and region in unrestored condition are now so rare as to be almost unavailable, but if found, can be expected to be from 20,000 to 50,000 pounds today.
Every single item from The Lanes Armoury is accompanied by our unique Certificate of Authenticity. Part of our continued dedication to maintain the standards forged by us over the past 100 years of our family’s trading


Literature on this helmet type see;
Cf. Egg, M. & Waurick, G. Antike Helme, Romisch-Germanisches Zentralmuseum, Mainz, 1990, item 2 for original type.  read more

Code: 22060

A Simply Beautiful Original Napoleonic Wars French 'Prisoner of War' Straw Valuables Box. Around 220 Years Old Made By French Prisoners from The Battle of the Nile To Waterloo

A fabulous original souvenir of the Anglo French wars, that is not only beautiful, and historically important, it is perfectly functional as a desk top jewel case, or, anything of similar use, such as a gentleman's watch and cufflink case

Napoleonic prisoner of war straw work marquetry ladies jewelry box with hinged lid opening to reveal three compartments, and one is hinge lidded. Overall in super condition. Decorated throughout with numerous and varied scenes of the British built Prisoner of War wooden fort.

This box dates to the Napoleonic wars between the French and English. Prisoners-of-war were held in purpose-built prisoner-of-war depots and typically were soldiers and sailors of the rank and file. Straw was a popular craft material for prisoners of war. They turned their skill to the making of cases and boxes covered with intricate straw patterns created using the contrasts between the light and dark sides of the straw strips. Those who understood dyes were also able to add colour to their work and produced some very sophisticated objects. Fewer of these straw items have survived to the present day, but there are still some lovely straw-covered boxes and cases which are intact.

Very similar example to one that is on display in the Burghley House Collection. Made by the captured Napoleonic and French wars French Prisoners-of-War in the early 1800's in order to subsidise their meagre prison rations, and this fine piece is made to give the impression it is a sizeable book when closed. All of the interior straw-work is pristine in colour and unfaded showing wonderful contrasts.

Great Britain was at war with France continuously from 1793 to 1802. Hostilities ceased briefly in 1802, but conflict soon recommenced. The Napoleonic Wars continued until 1815, when Napoleon's forces were finally defeated at Waterloo.

In 1796 the first prison to house French prisoners was built at Norman Cross, some 5 miles north of Peterborough. Conditions must have been both harsh and crowded; disease killed more that 1,700 inmates between 1797 and 1814.
To supplement their rations and to provide small income, some prisoners made ornaments, models and toys, which they were allowed to sell. The materials used included straw, wood, bone and even human hair. Many of the items made were extraordinary in their complexity and design and were always very desirable to collectors. The proximity of Burghley House to the camp meant that members of the Cecil family acquired many fine examples.

Those displayed at Burghley include a number of containers made of wood with applied decoration of coloured straw, a stationery box, a set of bone spillikins in a pocket case, a framed straw-work picture of the house built for Napoleon Bonaparte on St Helena, to where he was exiled, a bone set of dominoes and playing cards and a detailed model of an 80-gun ship-of-the-line with hair rigging.

Every single item from The Lanes Armoury is accompanied by our unique Certificate of Authenticity. Part of our continued dedication to maintain the standards forged by us over the past 100 years of our family’s trading

9 inches x 6 3/4 inches x 3 inches when closed
some very small straw inlay losses but overall in beautiful order.  read more

Code: 25072

A Superb And Most Beautiful 19th Century Gaucho Cowboy Knife In Extraordinarily Decorative Repouse Alpaca With Gold Embellishments

The South American Cowboy or Gaucho was the first range cowboy, whose existence is first recorded back in the 1600's, they wandered the Pampas for centuries, working cattle and living off the land and the herd, just as the later North American Cowboy did in the 19th century. Like the North American cowboys gauchos were generally reputed to be strong, honest, silent types, but proud and capable of violence when provoked. The gaucho tendency to violence over petty matters is also recognised as a typical trait.
Gauchos' use of the famous "facón" (knife generally tucked into the rear of the gaucho sash) is legendary, often associated with considerable bloodletting. Historically, the facón was typically the only eating instrument that a gaucho carried. As Charles Darwin said of the distinctive men who wore and used the facón,
"Many quarrels arose, which from the general manner of fighting with the knife often proved fatal."  read more

Code: 26079

A Fabulous, Museum Grade Signed, Antique, Samurai O-Tanto, Shinto Period. All Original Edo Fittings, Goto School. Absolutely Impeccable Blade Showing Fine Original Edo Polish & Displaying It’s Excellent Gunome Hamon. Overall An Incredibly Handsome Sword

A wonderful samurai sword, circa 1760. A large tanto almost wakazashi size. With hard lacquered leather bound tsuka. Shinto period, with a finely signed blade, displaying a superb gunome hamon and fine grain in the hada, and beautiful signed fittings. The signature is in a most unusual form and its translation, is Nishiharima 西播 the place name of Tatsuno 竜野 living in 住 Hyogo Prefecture, Edo period. The possible name of Butsusho {the sho is difficult to read}. The Fuchi is signed Yoshinaga of Mino, he was known for his adept skill of carving flowers, although the blade is also very much in the Mino form, mid Edo period, in the esteemed and much respected opinion of K. Y. In Japan

The fittings are all bronze and hammered with with fine gold, and probably by the much sought after Goto school. Superb kozuka with gold foil and shaudo on a Nanako ground, and a signed blade. It has a very rare style of black textured leather covered saya, with iron and gold kojiri. Gold mimi rimmed bronze tsuba with a nanako ground and numerous gold takebori Shishi {lion dogs}.

Nanako Ji: "fish roe ground" A surface decoration produced by forming very small raised bosses by a sharply struck punch or burin called 'nanako tagane'. Shakudo is the metal most often used, but copper and gold are quite often employed. The harder metals, shibuichi, silver and iron are rarely decorated in this way. The size of the dots vary from 0.04" to 0.008" (25 to 125 and inch) and the regularity of the work is marvelous as the dots must be spaced entirely by touch. The dots are usually arranged in straight lines or in lines parallel to the edge of the piece being decorated, but sometimes in more elaborate patterns. Used on guards since the Momoyama period although the technique existed since much earlier periods. Usually done by specialist 'nanako-shi', but sometimes done by the maker of the guard himself.

The Gotō School of sword-fittings makers was founded in the fifteenth century by Gotō Yūjō, who is said to have been patronized by the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa (1435–1490). The work of the Gotō masters is characterized by painterly designs carved in high relief on a ground of shakudō (an alloy of copper and gold chemically treated to turn a rich blue-black), finished in nanako (tiny circles punched regularly over the surface to give it a granular appearance) with colorful accents in gold and silver. The succeeding generations of Gotō masters continued to work in these soft metals and concentrated on the smaller sword fittings, such as kozuka (the handle of the small utility knife fitted into a slot on the back of a sword scabbard), kōgai (a skewer-like hairdressing tool carried in the front of the scabbard), and menuki (a pair of grip ornaments secured by the handle wrappings). The production of the stouter sword guards, or tsuba, was left to other masters. While earlier generations had not signed their work, the Gotō masters in about 1600 began to authenticate the work of their predecessors; the attributions usually were engraved on the backs of the pieces themselves. These attributions bear testimony to the keen interest in early sword fittings as status symbols for high-ranking samurai.
Tanto first began to appear in the Heian period, however these blades lacked artistic qualities and were purely weapons. In the Early Kamakura period high quality tanto with artistic qualities began to appear, and the famous Yoshimitsu (the greatest tanto maker in Japanese history) began his forging. Tanto production increased greatly around the Muromachi period and then dropped off in the Shinto period. Shinto period tanto are quite rare. Tanto were mostly carried by Samurai; commoners did not generally carry them. Women sometimes carried a small tanto called a kaiken in their obi for self defence.It was sometimes worn as the shoto in place of a wakizashi in a daisho, especially on the battlefield. Before the 16th century it was common for a Samurai to carry a tachi and a tanto as opposed to a katana and a wakizashi. Shishi (or Jishi) is translated as lion but it can also refer to a deer or dog with magical properties and the power to repel evil spirits. A pair of shishi traditionally stand guard outside the gates of Japanese Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples, although temples are more often guarded by two Nio protectors. The Shishi (like the Nio) are traditionally depicted in pairs, one with mouth open and one with mouth shut.). Others say the open mouth is to scare off demons, and the closed mouth to shelter and keep in the good spirits. The circular object often shown beneath their feet is the Tama, or sacred Buddhist jewel, a symbol of Buddhist wisdom that brings light to darkness and holds the power to grant wishes. Overall 26.5 inches long, blade 13.75 inches long

With grateful thanks to K.Y. of Japan. Doumo gozaimasu to our ever patient friend, who is always happy to assist us with complex or unusual translations.

Every single item from The Lanes Armoury is accompanied by our unique Certificate of Authenticity. Part of our continued dedication to maintain the standards forged by us over the past 100 years of our family’s trading, as Britain’s oldest established, and favourite, armoury and gallery  read more

Code: 25647

A Fabulous and Utterly Beautiful Koto Period Wakizashi, Circa 1550. a Strong and Very Powerful Blade with a Stunning Hamon in Excellent Polish

In all original Edo period fittings and mounts. A simply wonderful sword with wide flat sided blade with wide full length hi to both blade faces. It bears a breathtakingly impressive deep notare with choji hamon. A delightful iron mokko tsuba with takebori small swooping birds and small pure gold highlights. The fuchi of shakudo and pure gold decorated shell fish and coral in crashing waves, and very fine quality.

It has a pair of copper menuki under the wrap that are deeply takebori spiders. The fuchi pommel is carved and polished buffalo horn. Very good original Edo saya with rich black urushi lacquer. Set within the kozuka pocket is a gold decorated kozuka with a good takebori crayfish.

Cherished for its infinite versatility, urushi lacquer is a distinctive art form that has spread across all facets of Japanese culture from the tea ceremony to the saya scabbards of samurai swords

Japanese artists created their own style and perfected the art of decorated lacquerware during the 8th century. Japanese lacquer skills reached its peak as early as the twelfth century, at the end of the Heian period (794-1185). This skill was passed on from father to son and from master to apprentice.

The varnish used in Japanese lacquer is made from the sap of the urushi tree, also known as the lacquer tree or the Japanese varnish tree (Rhus vernacifera), which mainly grows in Japan and China, as well as Southeast Asia. Japanese lacquer, 漆 urushi, is made from the sap of the lacquer tree. The tree must be tapped carefully, as in its raw form the liquid is poisonous to the touch, and even breathing in the fumes can be dangerous. But people in Japan have been working with this material for many millennia, so there has been time to refine the technique!

The urushi lacquer has a few natural, and certainly permissible for its age, very small surface wear marks and nicks.

16.5 inch long blade, 1.3 inches wide at the habaki, overall 23 inches long

Every single item from The Lanes Armoury is accompanied by our unique Certificate of Authenticity. Part of our continued dedication to maintain the standards forged by us over the past 100 years of our family’s trading, as Britain’s oldest established, and favourite, armoury and gallery  read more

Code: 24881

Pair Of Medals From the 1882 Tel-el-Kabir Campaign. Awarded To An Officer of The Royal Fusiliers

Pair of service medals of Lieut. {later Captain} of the Royal Fusiliers (specifically the 1st Battalion) who fought in the Battle of Tel el Kebir in 1882.

He served with the British forces in the First Egyptian War and according to records "distinguished himself at Tel-el-Kebir". He died at his home in Dorset, in 1886, from a fever contracted during his time in Egypt a British Army officer of the Royal Fusiliers who participated in the Battle of Tel el-Kebir during the Anglo-Egyptian War of 1882.

A Lieutenant in the British armed forces. He was part of the expeditionary force sent to Egypt under Lieutenant-General Sir Garnet Wolseley to suppress the 'Urabi Revolt led by Ahmed 'Urabi Pasha.

The Battle of Tel el-Kebir was the decisive engagement of the Anglo-Egyptian War, fought on September 13, 1882, in north eastern Egypt.
Objective: The British aimed to capture the heavily fortified Egyptian position at Tel el-Kebir, which was a strategic point on the railway and the Sweet Water Canal between Ismailia and Cairo.
Strategy: General Wolseley led a surprise dawn attack after a long, silent night march across the desert, navigating by the stars.
Outcome: The British forces, though outnumbered, routed the Egyptian army within an hour. The victory ended the 'Urabi Revolution and led to the British occupation of Egypt for the next 70 years.
While specific details of his individual actions in the battle are not widely published, his name is associated with those who fought in this pivotal conflict that cemented British control over Egypt and the Suez Canal, a vital route to India. The National Army Museum collection includes images and information related to the battle and the units involved, many of which can be viewed online.  read more

Code: 26024

Superb 'War Of The Roses' Period, 15th Century, Rose Head Archers Ring. ‘Draw Archers, Draw Your Arrows to the Head!’ Richard IIIrd, By Shakespeare, Before the Battle of Bosworth. Embellished with Numerous English Royal Rose Heads Across The Entire Ring

What a fabulous piece of history!.

Bronze thumb ring with numerous relief cast royal rose head designs upon the whole surface. Overall in very nice condition, with very fine natural age patina, and, remarkably, a good wearable size.

Archers used thumb rings during the Wars of the Roses (15th Century England), primarily for the powerful English longbow, protecting the thumb from the bowstring. Many of the bowmen wore iron sallet helmets, and identifying noble or royal crests, such as boars heads for King Richard, plus, royal rose heads symbols, that were stitched upon their tunics or tabards, either white for Yorkists, or red for Lancastrians.

Richard III was one of the kings who recognised the value of the archer; Shakespeare makes him say, just prior to the Battle of Bosworth: ‘Draw archers, draw your arrows to the head!’ There are also records telling that Richard sent a body of 1,000 archers to France to aid the Duke of Brittany. Henry VII also provided anti-crossbow legislation and sent large levies of English archers to fight for the Duke of Brittany. During this entire period English longbowmen served in many parts of the then-known world.

A stunning condition cast bronze archer's ring embellished with the roses of the royal houses of either York, or Lancaster. The rose was the symbol of divinity and royalty. With stylized multiple 15th century rose symbols in bronze, across the entire shank, it is near impossible to decide with royal side it was from.

However, this ring may well be more likely the Yorkist rose, for a Yorkist archer, due to another near identical example we had thirty years ago. It was special and identifiable enough to be easily memorable, and near identical to this one, that was recovered just around Anbion Hill around 200 years ago.

Ambion Hill is a significant historical landmark in Leicestershire, England, famous as the former site of Richard III's camp before the pivotal Battle of Bosworth Field in 1485, though the battle's core is now known to be nearby. It's home to the Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre and features memorials, including a sundial marking a traditional water source for Richard III, and marks the location of the deserted medieval village of Anebein.


The name of the Wars of the Roses comes from emblems used by the warring parties. It is often attributed to Walter Scott who referred to ‘the wars of the White and Red Roses’ in a novel written in 1829 (Anne of Geierstein). However, the idea of a conflict involving roses started in the fifteenth century. One ballad called Edward IV the ‘the Rose of Rouen’ and, shortly after he became king, a painting was made in which members of the royal family, fighting each other, grew out of stylised red, white and gold roses.

In the Middle Ages, roses were considered the pre-eminent flower of the plant kingdom and so they were common symbols of divinity and royalty. The white rose was one of the emblems often used by the House of York. The red rose was perhaps used by Lady Margaret Beaufort, mother of Henry VII, before 1485 and maybe by earlier members of the House of Lancaster, although firm evience is lacking.

The Tudor Rose
After marrying Elizabeth of York, Henry VII combined the two roses to form the Tudor Rose to symbolise the peace which he claimed his reign had brought to England. Public pageants and poetry publicised this message and Shakespeare made it famous in his ‘history plays’. The plays of his second tetrarchy are full of metaphors of England as a garden that is not being properly looked after during the conflict between kings. Richard II is called a ‘fair rose’, Henry IV ‘this thorn, this canker’. The origin of Walter Scott’s title is probably the scene in Henry VI Pt 1 in which the Dukes of York and Somerset invite their supporters to pick white or red roses to declare their allegiances. The theme is picked up again in Henry VI Pts 2 and 3 and Henry Tudor’s final speech in Richard III promises:

We will unite the white rose and the red./ Smile heaven upon this fair conjunction,/ That long have frown’d upon their enmity!

A Latin poem, written down in 1486 is perhaps the earliest evidence of the ideas that led to the Tudor rose. It refers to Richard III’s emblem of the white boar and ends with the words,

the tusks of the Boar were blunted and the red rose, the avenger of the white, shines up on us.



Though traditional English archers often used three fingers (Mediterranean draw) or finger tabs, while thumb rings were more common in Eastern archery (Turkish/Mughal styles), but finds like a bronze thumb ring from Agincourt (1415) prove their use by English archers, especially in large-scale battles, offering a smooth release for powerful bows, despite debate on their universal use in England.
The main purpose was to shield the thumb from the abrasion and injury caused by the bowstring (often waxed hemp or linen) when releasing the arrow, especially with heavy longbows.
A well-made ring, particularly those with a smooth, rounded edge, allowed the string to "slip" off the thumb cleanly, enabling a faster, more consistent release than fingers alone, notes this YouTube video.
In the Wars of the Roses English archers famously used the longbow

While common in Asian and Middle Eastern archery (Mughal, Turkish), their presence in Europe shows cultural exchange or independent adoption for powerful bows, says the Victoria and Albert Museum, which houses both such Mughal rings and British.

The rings could be made from various materials, including bronze, bone, horn, or even stone (like the diorite ring found in Meroë), depending on origin and period, explains National Museums Liverpool.
In summary, thumb rings were a tool for medieval archers, including those fighting in the Wars of the Roses, to enhance comfort and performance with powerful bows  read more

Code: 26086