English “Mortuary” Broadsword

Description

The sword now commonly known as a “mortuary sword”, originated around the time of the
English Civil War. It is a distinctly English design and derives its name because many
examples show chiseled figures of King Charles I, who was executed by Parliament in
1649, hence the Latin term “mort”, for death. They were used by cavalrymen of both sides
and went out of style by the late 1600’s. This example features steel basket guard with
foliate decoration in relief, but no representations of King Charles. Scrolling side bars
connect to the ovoid pommel with screws, while two bars extend from each side bar to the
knuckle guard, which is also screwed to the pommel. Grip with leather wrap and ferrules
top and bottom. Double-edged 31″ blade with short central fuller and no visible markngs.
Shows wear and partially cleaned bright, the balance with dark patina. Overall length 37
1/4″ (94.6 cm).