Antique Arms & Militaria

A Wonderful, Victorian Surgeon’s Royal Army Medical Corps {RAMC} Officer's Sword In Pristine, Museum Grade, & Near Mint Condition. An Example So Fine It that Would Likely Be Literally Impossible to Improve Upon

Used by some of the bravest and selfless men ever to see service in the British Armed Forces. The Royal Army Medical Corps (RAMC) has been awarded a total of 29 Victoria Crosses {VC} the most highly regarded medal awarded for valour in the world. Only 1358 have been awarded since its inception in 1856, out of the tens of millions of men that have served the Empire and Commonwealth during that time.

The same pattern of sword used by British Infantry officers since 1822. This is the first pattern of sword for officers of the RAMC, with the pierced guard hilt bearing the Royal Cypher of Queen Victoria, used by its earliest serving officers. The second pattern has the similar pierced hilt but the Royal Cypher of King Edward VIIth. This sword was used in medical service with the RAMC in the Boer War, such as at Harts Hill, Colenso, and Tugela Heights, and later in WW1 on the Western Front trench warfare, such as at The Somme,Ypres and Passchendaele.

From the very earliest founding of the Royal Army Medical Corps in the Victorian era, with VR Crown pierced hilt with almost all it original gilt present. With deluxe grade near mint silvered scabbard & a near mint condition, fully etched, bright and frosted fully decorated regimental blade, with the RAMC devices of the Rod of Asclepius and the Latin motto "In Arduis Fidelis" ("Faithful in Adversity"), and with a Crown VR symbol on the opposite side.

As a most interesting point of history of the surgeons and doctors of the RAMC in the Boer War. They were supported by the Natal Volunteer Ambulance Corps. AKA 'The Body-Snatchers'. A most interesting corps that served alongside Indian volunteer bearers under the command of no less an historical figure than Mahatma Gandhi {Monhandas Karamchand Gandhi}, who was normally a barrister in South Africa at the time. And during that time the Natal Volunteer Ambulance Corps recruited from two specific and yet most contrasting groups of SA citizens, lawyers, and vagrants. Gandhi, when asked about his support of Britain in the war, was quoted as saying "I felt that, if I demanded rights as a British citizen, it was also my duty, as such, to participate in the defence of the British Empire,"

The Victoria Cross was awarded to Captain Edgar Thomas Inkson for a humane and devoted act at Hart's Hill, Colenso, February 24, 1900. Lieutenant J. G. Devenish (1st Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers), having been severely wounded and unable to move, was lying exposed to a very heavy fire. Lieutenant Inkson, seeing his danger, carried him for 400 yards through the hail of lead poured upon them, and, in spite of the absence of cover for the entire distance, succeeded in conveying him to a place of safety.
Captain Edgar Thomas Inkson, son of Surgeon-Major-General Inkson, R.A., was born at Nyne Tal, India, on April 5, 1872. After passing through University College Hospital, London, was gazetted Surgeon, July 28, 1899, just ten weeks before the war, and was almost at once sent out to South Africa. He took part in every action for the relief of Ladysmith—from Colenso to the finish, at the end of February, with Fitzroy Hart's, or the Irish Brigade, being twice named in despatches. For his services he has been awarded—in addition to the Victoria Cross—both medals and many clasps. Although daily under fire for weeks together was never once wounded, even though in medical charge with the batteries at Colenso. On return from active service, eighteen months after being gazetted, was presented with the Victoria Cross, at St. James' Palace, by H.M. The King, May 13, 1902.
He later achieved the rank of colonel after serving in the First World War.

His Victoria Cross is displayed at the Army Medical Services Museum, Mytchett, England.
The Royal Army Medical Corps (RAMC) played a vital role in caring for British soldiers during World War I. The corps expanded dramatically during the war, providing medical services in all theatres of conflict. RAMC personnel, including doctors, nurses, stretcher bearers, and ambulance drivers, were responsible for treating the sick and wounded.

The RAMC was responsible for the army's medical units and provided medical support to all other military units.
It expanded from 9,000 officers and men at the start of the war to 13,000 officers and 154,000 other ranks by the end of the war.
The corps served in various locations, including France, Belgium, Macedonia, Italy, Palestine, South Russia, and Mesopotamia.
The RAMC worked alongside voluntary organizations like the British Red Cross and St. John's Ambulance.

RAMC personnel provided a range of medical services, from basic first aid to more advanced treatments in hospitals.
They were involved in the development of new medical techniques, including the use of barges for evacuating the seriously wounded.
Preventive medicine was also a priority, with the introduction of anti-typhoid inoculation, which significantly reduced casualties from typhoid fever.
The RAMC also played a role in developing gas protection, such as gas helmets and respirators, after the introduction of chemical warfare.

The large number of casualties from modern weaponry and the global nature of the conflict presented significant challenges to the RAMC.
The RAMC faced difficulties in providing timely and effective care to all the wounded, especially those in forward areas.
Despite the challenges, the RAMC made significant contributions to the war effort, and their work is considered crucial to the well-being of the British Army.
.
Captain Noel Chavasse V.C. & Bar RAMC is one of only three people to be awarded the Victoria Cross twice – and the only VC and Bar of the First World War.
After joining the Royal Army Medical Corps in 1913 he went to France with 1/10th Battalion King’s Regiment, the Liverpool Scottish. Noel was not afraid to criticise his superiors – and got into trouble for complaining about the organisation of field ambulances, the rampant spread of venereal disease and the treatment of shell shock victims, who he believed should be helped, not shot for cowardice.

In June 1915 he won a Military Cross after 12 hours rescuing casualties at Ypres. In August 1916 he was awarded his first Victoria Cross for saving around 20 men while wounded at Guillemont on the Somme.
After two years in France with the Royal Army Medical Corps, his usually optimistic letters home had become more stark and reflective. In July 1917, he wrote to his parents about his wedding, his prospects and his VC:
“I shall get married about Christmas. Gladys wants it very badly. I shall feel rather a fool after the war, a married man without a job. Still, it’s a bit pathetic to have to leave a bronze cross to a cousin twice removed. I don't think I earned it as many men have had to do. I prize it more than I can say.”

He told how he had turned down the safety of a surgeon’s job to remain in the front line:

“I have written to the base hospital and said that though I valued the offer very much, I thought I had better stay with the lads. I felt rather depressed about it for a quarter of an hour. Always your loving Noel.”

Duty called and called me to obey.
First World War soldier Arthur Roberts
The story of Arthur Roberts
“I saw sights that I never saw before or wish to see again.”
Less than a month later, Noel was composing another letter, this time to his beloved Gladys. Mortally wounded at Casualty Clearing Station No 32 near Ypres, he dictated to a nurse: “Duty called and called me to obey.”

In the first attack of Passchendaele on 31 July 1917, Noel was hit in the head but refused to leave despite a fractured skull, venturing into no man’s land time and again to treat the wounded.

Early on 2 August, Noel’s first-aid post was hit by a shell. With his face unrecognisable and a serious stomach wound, he crawled half a mile for help. He died on 4 August aged 32.

Noel’s grave at Brandhoek New Military Cemetery is unique – the only headstone to have two Victoria Crosses on it. In 2009 his medals were bought by Lord Ashcroft for £1.5 million, the highest price paid for VCs. They are on display at the Imperial War Museum, London.

The Rod of Asclepius is a serpent-entwined staff that is the correct symbol of medicine and healing, associated with the Greek god Asclepius. It is often confused with the Caduceus, which features two snakes and wings and is associated with the god Hermes, the messenger god, and commerce. The Rod of Asclepius, with its single snake, is the more widely recognized and accepted symbol of medicine.

In Greek mythology, Asclepius was the god of healing and medicine. The Rod of Asclepius, a staff with a single snake wrapped around it, is his attribute.

The Rod of Asclepius has been a symbol of medicine and healing for centuries, representing the connection between healing and the natural world, as symbolized by the snake.

The Rod of Asclepius is the symbol used by many healthcare organizations

Captain Edgar Thomas Inkson, V.C. DSO, RAMC BOER WAR

Credit: Material re Captain Edgar Thomas Inkson, V.C., RAMC. Source: Wellcome Collection.  read more

Code: 25822

A Remarkably Beautiful & Elegant Proto Celtic Bronze Age Bracelet Circa 2600 Years Old. That Continued Use Into Era Of The Great Iceni Celtic Queen Boudica. And, The Bracelet That Inspired Gustav Klimt One Of The Greatest Art Nouveau Artists In The World

This is an original Celtic 2600 year old bronze serpentine ringed cuff bracelet, 'object vertu' that was directly copied by one of the greatest Art Nouveau artists in the world, Austrian, Gustav Klimt leader of his Art Nouveau Jugendstil Vienna Secession Movement. Gustav Klimt's painting "Dame Mit Fächer" (Lady with a Fan) sold at Sotheby's in London, in 2023 for $108.4 million. See photo in the gallery of the {circa 1895} Jugendstil Vienna Secession bracelet, an obvious direct copy.

From the 8th to 6th centuries BC, developing out of the Urnfield culture of the 12th century BC (Late Bronze Age) and followed in much of its area by the La Tène culture. It is commonly associated with Proto-Celtic speaking populations.

By the 6th century BC, it had expanded to include wide territories, falling into two zones, east and west, between them covering much of western and central Europe down to the Alps, and extending into northern Italy. Parts of Britain and Iberia are included in the ultimate expansion of the Celtic culture. Where the snake serpentine designs of jewellery and adornments continued into Ancient Britannia, and the realm in Norfolk of the greatest and most famous Iceni Queen, Boudica, scourge and destroyer of the 70,000 to 80,000 Britannia based 9th Legion of Rome and their pro Roman supporters, in 61 A.D. In the Roman towns of Camulodunum, Verulamium, and Londinium.

This bracelet was the direct inspiration, but actually it is clearly an identical copy, for Gustav Klimt's
Art Nouveau Jugendstil Vienna Secession, brass cuff bracelet

See the gallery the stunning Gustav Klimt Jugendstil Vienna Secession brass cuff bracelet, circa 1895, currently offered by exclusive jewellery and object vertu dealers DFS in New York
Sale price $5,500.00.

The history of the evolution of the Celts from their Austrian origins

In German historiography, these seats of power are called fürstensitz. These were large, fortified hill forts situated on easily defendable locations. There were at least 16 such seats of power, while there were probably more just waiting to be discovered. The most important ones were at Hochdorf, Wurzburg, Heuneburg, Hohenasberg, Breisach, Mont Lassois, Vix, and Camp de Chassey, amongst others. These fortified settlements were protected by a complex system of ditches and earthen ramparts.

Most modern scholars and historians associate the culture with the Celts. It is commonly understood that this intriguing culture was the foundation from which emerged the wondrous Celtic world that we all know so well. In many aspects, this was is clearly the earliest, Proto-Celtic stage in Bronze and Iron age Europe.

2,25 inches across, 1 inch high.

Photo 10 in the gallery is a same period Celtic Diadem in the Metropolitan Museum in the USA. One can clearly see the distinct design in this piece reflected in the bracelet. Possibly both forms of these adornments were worn together and simultaneously by the Celtic hi-born {tribal leaders, princes princesses and the like} A diadem is a type of crown, specifically an ornamental headband, often jeweled, worn by monarchs and others to signify royalty or high status. It can also refer to a jeweled ornament in the shape of a half crown worn by women. In a broader sense, "diadem" can be used to describe any emblem of regal power or dignity.

For reference see; Stead, I. M. (1997). Celtic Art. Harvard University Press

https://www.metmuseum.org/

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 trading  read more

Code: 25815

Our Ring Return's To Rome!!! A Beautiful, Original, Roman Empire Bronze Seal Ring With The Engraved Fulminata of Julius Caeser's XIIth Legion & Ancient Greek Script. Around 2000 Years Old

We have just received some fabulous photographs, very kindly sent to us today, from our client who purchased this ring, especially, to wear on his trip to Italy this month, and specifically in the Coliseum, and around other parts of Ancient Rome. Photo 10 in the gallery is Mr B.C. wearing this XIIth Legion centurion's ring this week!

Circa 1st Century. A good still wearable large size, in bronze copper ally, engraved with a traditional seal in Greco-Roman, and the symbol of the 12th legion 'Fulminata' The Lighting Twelfth. It was another Roman legion established by Julius Caesar. Named after the unit’s symbol, the thunderbolt, the Twelfth could trace its origins to 58 BCE. The legion served in some of Caesar’s most famous battles in Gaul, including the Siege of Alesia. It also saw a fair share of fighting in the civil war against Pompey, participating in the decisive showdown at Pharsalus. Following victory in the war, Caesar changed the legion’s name to Victrix (“winner”). Another cognomen was later added by Mark Antony—Antiqua—meaning the “old one” (as in “reliable one”).

During Caesar's war against his fellow-triumvir and rival Pompey the Great, which broke out in January 49, the Twelfth participated in the invasion of Italy, and a year later, it was with Caesar during the battle of Pharsalus (9 August 48). After Caesar's victory, the men were pensioned off and received land in the neighborhood of Parma .

We know that it was called Victrix ("winner") after the civil war, which is a bit confusing because later, there was another legion called XII Victrix.

Mark Antony brought the Lighting Twelfth to the East to join his war against Parthia. While the campaign ended in defeat, the legion remained in the East during the imperial period, continuing the fight against the Parthian and the Sassanid Empires. The unit still guarded the Euphrates crossing next to its base—Melitene—at the beginning of the fifth century. This longevity makes Legio XII Fulminata another one of the longest-standing Roman legions on record.

Likely the ring of a serving centurion of the 12th, with a traditional motto somewhat similar to 'good soul'. It bears KAAH {in reverse, as it was the centurion's seal} which, depending on context can be mean to represent good, faithful or beautiful.  read more

Code: 24761

A Beautiful Quality & Original, Viking Warrior's Bronze Torc Arm Ring Circa 800's in Viking Twisted Wirework Design.

A fabulous Viking twisted wire bronze alloy arm ring bracelet. A most attractive and impressive, original, Viking warrior's adornment, around 1200 years old, with very fine original age patination.

Knowledge about the arms and armour and body adornments such as bracelets, torcs, rings and pendants, of the Viking age is based on archaeological finds, pictorial representation, and to some extent on the accounts in the Norse sagas and Norse laws recorded in the 13th century. According to custom, all free Norse men were required to own weapons and were permitted to carry them all the time, and body adornments were a way to set one apart, the more successful in combat a warrior was was the greater his share of the looted booty, and this success could only be best shown by him in his body adornment, such as rings, torcs, wrist and arm bracelets, or pendants, and finally topped off with a wolf fur cloak. The arms he bore and his jewellery were indicative of a Viking's social status: a wealthy Viking had a complete ensemble of a helmet, shield, mail shirt, sword if his status was the highest otherwise spear or axe, and his body adornments. However, swords were rarely used in battle in the same quantity as axes, as few Vikings were of the status to own or carry a sword, A typical bondi (freeman) was more likely to fight with a spear and shield, and axe, and most also carried a seax as a utility knife and side-arm. Bows were used in the opening stages of land battles and at sea, but they tended to be considered less "honourable" than a melee weapon.

The warfare and violence of the Vikings were often motivated and fuelled by their beliefs in Norse religion, focusing on Thor and Odin, the gods of war and death. In combat, it is believed that the Vikings sometimes engaged in a disordered style of frenetic, furious fighting known as berserkergang, leading them to be termed berserkers. Such tactics may have been deployed intentionally by shock troops, and the berserk-state may have been induced through ingestion of materials with psychoactive properties, such as the hallucinogenic mushrooms, Amanita muscaria, or large amounts of alcohol. Perhaps the most common hand weapon among Vikings was the axe, swords were far more expensive to make, and only wealthy warriors could possibly afford them.

Vikings and Norse people wore arm rings (also known as Torcs) as a sign of their wealth and status, and as a sign of loyalty. An arm ring is a type of heavy jewellry that is worn around the upper or lower arm. Arm rings might made of precious metals such as gold or silver, but for combat bronze was more sustainable

Norse arm rings were usually given as gifts to mark special occasions such as births, weddings, or military victories. They were also sometimes used as currency. In some cases, arm rings were passed down from generation to generation as family heirlooms. Viking arm rings have been found at many old Viking locations.

The meaning of a Viking arm ring could vary depending on its owner. For some people, it may have been a symbol of their power and wealth. For others, it may have represented their family history or heritage.

Whatever the meaning of a Viking arm ring may have been, it is clear that these pieces of jewellery were important to the Norse people. Arm rings were more than just fashion accessories; they held significant value both socially and economically.

In its wearing life arm rings wether for wrist or upper arm could be expanded easily by hand in order to increase its size to fit the wrist or arm of the wearer at the time, but not today of course.

As with all our items it comes complete with our certificate of authenticity

for reference see; Shetelig, H. (ed), Viking
Antiquities in Great Britain & Ireland, Part VI, Oslo, 1954, figs.84-85 (hoards from Croydon and Cuerdale).  read more

Code: 25816

An Original, Rare Incredible & Historical Piece. Silver Imperial Roman Centurion or Tribune's Military Ring of Victory, 2nd Century AD Engraved with the Intaglio of Winged Victory, wearing her helmet and holding the laurel wreath of Victory

The rings surface shows combat service wear, yet has survived remarkably well considering it is near 2000 years old.

The laurel wreath was worn symbolically by the Imperial Roman Emperors. Military Roman bronze rings were allowed to be worn by the Legionary or Centurion, but silver grade was only for the ranks of such as the Centurion, Tribune or Legate.

Victoria, in Roman religion, personification of victory, the equivalent of the Greek goddess Nike. She was often associated with Jupiter, Mars, and other deities and was especially worshipped by the army. In later times she had three or four sanctuaries at Rome, including a temple on the Palatine Hill and an altar in the Senate House.

After the Marian reforms of 107 BC (subsequently further formalised by the emperor Claudius) created a professionalised military system, legions were commanded by a legionary legate (legatus). Six tribunes were still posted to a legion, but their duties and responsibilities had changed, becoming more a political position than a military rank. The second-in-command to the legate was the tribunus laticlavius or 'broad-stripe' tribune (named after the width of the stripe used to demarcate him on his tunic and toga),6 usually a young man of senatorial rank. He was given this position to learn and watch the actions of the legate. They often found themselves leading their unit in the absence of a legate, and some legions were permanently commanded by a broad-stripe tribune, such as those stationed in Egypt, as an Augustan law required that no member of the Senatorial Order ever enter Egypt.

A Centurion was a position in the Roman army during classical antiquity, nominally the commander of a century, a military unit originally consisting of 100 legionaries. The size of the century changed over time, and from the first century BC through most of the imperial era was reduced to 80 men.

In a Roman legion, centuries were grouped into cohorts and commanded by their senior-most centurion. The prestigious first cohort was led by the primus pilus, the most senior centurion in the legion and its fourth-in-command who was next in line for promotion to Praefectus Castrorum, and the primi ordines who were the centurions of the first cohort.

This fine ring was worn by higher ranked military officer's from the era of Emperor Marcus Aurelius, 161 to 180 ad, the last part of his reign was dramatically represented in the blockbuster film 'Gladiator', starring Richard Harris as the Emperor. He acceded to the throne of Emperor alongside his adoptive brother, who reigned under the name Lucius Verus. Under his rule the Roman Empire witnessed heavy military conflict. In the East, the Romans fought successfully with a revitalised Parthian Empire and the rebel Kingdom of Armenia. Marcus defeated the Marcomanni, Quadi, and Sarmatian Iazyges in the Marcomannic Wars; however, these and other Germanic peoples began to represent a troubling reality for the Empire.

Commodus. the successor and son of Marcus Aurelias, was the Roman emperor who ruled from 177 to 192. He served jointly with his father Marcus Aurelius from 177 until the latter's death in 180, and thereafter he reigned alone until his assassination. His reign is commonly thought of as marking the end of a golden period of peace in the history of the Roman Empire, known as the Pax Romana.
Commodus became the youngest emperor and consul up to that point, at the age of 16. Throughout his reign, Commodus entrusted the management of affairs to his palace chamberlain and praetorian prefects, named Saoterus, Perennis and Cleander.

Commodus's assassination in 192, by a wrestler in the bath, marked the end of the Nerva–Antonine dynasty. He was succeeded by Pertinax, the first emperor in the tumultuous Year of the Five Emperors.

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 trading  read more

Code: 24629

SOLD; Originally Worn By A Legendary, Notorious & Terrifying 'Elite' Viking Mercenary Warrior, A Spectacular, Original & Ancient Viking 'Berserker's' Status Neck Torc in Bronze. Even the Fierce-Some Viking's Were in Fear Of Them. 1200 Years old

This fabulous piece is now sold and awaiting delivery to its new, very fortunate owner. If any former collector of original Viking warfare bronze adornments has similar pieces they may wish to sell, please consider contacting us, we are always incredibly keen to acquire additional rare Viking antiquities for our gallery’s collection. As the largest specialist dealers in Europe in military antiques and antiquities we are always keen to be contacted by current or former collectors.

A very large bronze Torc in traditional Viking twisted wirework, heavy grade copper bronze. Berserkers were among the most feared of the Norse Viking bare-skinned warriors of their age, ingesting hallucinogens to induce a trance-like fury that carried them through battle.

It is believed they fought hand to hand, naked, and bearing nothing but their weapons, a shield and wearing only their status neck torc

It’s around an amazing 24 cm across, weighing 460 grams

The Lewis Chessmen, discovered in Scotland but believed to be Norwegian, date to the 12th century and include a number of pieces showing wild-eyed berserkers biting their shields.

In the fierce warrior culture of the Vikings, there was one type of elite, almost possessed, norse warrior that stood out for their battle fury and violence: the Viking Berserker.
They were careless in their fury, leading many historians to think that they used mind-altering substances to hype themselves up for battle. Berserkers may have felt as though nothing could hurt them. And the English phrase “berserk,” usually describing a frenzied state of anger, comes from these Norse warriors.

Viking berserkers existed as mercenaries for hundreds of years during the Scandinavian Middle Ages, traveling in bands to fight wherever they could get paid. But they also worshiped Odin and were associated with mythological shapeshifters.
And eventually, Norse berserkers became so fearsome that they were entirely outlawed by the 11th century
The Torslunda Plates, which were discovered in Sweden and date to the 6th century, likely depict how berserkers would have dressed in battle.

Most of what comprised the life of a Viking berserker is a mystery because their practices weren’t recorded in detail until the using mind-altered states in battle had been outlawed by the Christian church.
At this time, Christian writers on a mission to condemn any sort of pagan traditions often gave biased, altered accounts.
We do know that berserkers were inhabitants of Scandinavia. It’s written that they guarded Norway’s king Harald I Fairhair as he reigned from 872 to 930 A.D.

They also fought for other kings and royal causes. Archaeological findings from the time when a Viking berserker would have reigned supreme show that they were among elite warriors who were wild and reckless when fighting battles.

A detail of one of the 6th-century Torslunda Plates found in Sweden. It is believed to depict Odin wearing a horned helmet and a berserker wearing the mask of either a wolf or bear.

According to Anatoly Liberman in Berserks in History and Legend, the berserkers roared and otherwise made a lot of noise when in battle. One artistic depiction of the berserkers found in Tissø, West Zealand, showed them wearing a horned helmet.

The word “berserker” itself is derived from the Old Norse serkr, meaning “shirt,” and ber, the word for “bear,” suggesting that a Viking berserker would have worn the hide of a bear, or possibly wolves and wild boars, to battle.

But, rather than wearing the skins animals, the stories told of the Norse warriors who would be so enraged for war that they would literally become wolves and bears to win the battles before them.


In the National Museum of Denmark is the Golden Horn
Imagery of berserkers often depicted them semi-nude, like on this 5th-century golden horn discovered in Møgeltønder, Denmark with naked berserkers wearing neck torcs

Berserkers were originally thought to be named after a hero in Norse mythology who fought without any protective gear or “bare skinned.”

“The nakedness of the berserkers was in itself a good psychological weapon, because such men were naturally feared, when they showed such disregard for their own personal safety,” according to the National Museum of Denmark.
“The naked body may have symbolized invulnerability and was perhaps displayed to honour a war god. The berserkers were thus dedicating their lives and bodies to the battle.”

Although this imagery is fascinating, experts now think that the term comes from wearing bear skins instead of “bare skin”. So, it’s likely that they got their name from wearing animal skin in battle.

Artistic depictions of a Viking berserker showed Norse warriors wearing the skins of animals in battle. They may have felt like wearing the skins of perceived wild animals like wolves and bears helped increase their strength.

They might have also thought that it helped them channel the aggression and brutality that hunting animals have when going after their prey.

In 872 AD, Thórbiörn Hornklofi described how Norse warriors that were bear-like and wolf-like fought for King Harald Fairhair of Norway. Nearly a thousand years later, in 1870, four cast-bronze dies depicting Berserkers were discovered by Anders Petter Nilsson and Erik Gustaf Pettersson in Öland, Sweden.

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 trading  read more

Code: 24807

British Early Victorian Jacob Pattern Pierced Scroll Hilted Cavalry Sword, With Quill Back Blade. Also Known As The Rare Scinde Horse Pattern. A Most Beautiful and Exceptionally Elegant British Cavalry Sabre From the Earliest Raj Period of India

Complete with its original red cloth lined original buff hide hilt liner.
Just returned from our conservation workshop, to clean, conserve and hand polish the sword throughout, that enquired over 40 hours specialist attention

An absolute beauty of a most rare British officers cavalry sabre of the 1850’s. A rare pre-Indian Mutiny ‘Jacob pattern’ Scind horse officers sword, it is a type of British cavalry officer's sword design that originated with John Jacob of the Scinde Irregular Horse. Bespoke commissioned from James Fisher of 37 Duke St, St James', London, in its earliest form with the quill pattern mounted combat blade.

John Jacob’s Scind Horse was a regiment of the highest honour and legend during the British Raj. The other ranks volunteers list was so long few of the eager volunteers manage to join the regiment. Despite having the criteria that every native volunteer accepted must provide his own steed and kit at their own expense. The men were the most skilled, loyal and devoted to be found anywhere in India, and their service included some of the most dangerous combat circumstances known to history.

Later on the pattern inspired the 1857 Royal Engineers Officer's sword, but by then to be mounted with the later, regular, Wilkinson sword pattern blade.

The Pierced Scroll {acanthus} Hilted Cavalry Sword with a Quill Back Blade is a unique and historically significant sword design, prized for its distinctive hilt and blade construction, optimized for mounted combat. The design is attributed to John Jacob, who raised the Scinde Irregular Horse.
The Scinde Horse, originally known as the 14th Horse, was an irregular cavalry regiment in British India. John Jacob, a prominent figure in the regiment, was instrumental in developing the sword pattern. The sword was popular during a period when swords were still in active use by cavalry, even as firearms were becoming more prevalent.

The Scinde Horse Pattern officer’s sword is distinct from other British cavalry swords, such as the Pattern 1821 Officers Undress Sword and the much later Pattern 1908 cavalry sword. The Pattern 1821 had a pipe-backed, double-edged blade, while the Pattern 1908 was the last service sword issued to the British cavalry and is considered by some to be the most effective.

The Scinde Horse Pattern sword is specifically recognized for its distinctive hilt and its association with the Scinde Horse regiment and John Jacob

The Quill Back Blade: First designed and used during the late Napoleonic wars
The blade's spine is hollowed out, creating a lighter blade with a distinctive profile. This design allows for a good balance between cutting and thrusting.

The Scinde Horse was raised to protect the British Caravans traversing the Spice Route - from the Bolan Pass in Afghanistan, to the Indus at Sukkur and then via Fort Abbas to Bikaner, Hissar and Delhi. The route through the Thar Desert via Jaisalmer was too difficult and dangerous. Since this involved corridor protection along the route, laying in ambush and also accompanying the caravans, they travelled mostly in civilian dress with weapons hidden to look inconspicuous. As a result, they were popularly called "The Scinde Irregular Horse". The term Irregulars is carried with pride amongst Scinde horsemen to this day as they have consistently surprised the adversary both in times of war and in competitions during peace to gain an upper hand. The Irregulars have always thought "out of the box" and accomplished the seemingly impossible.

The Regimental War Cry: The Scinde Horse Spirit is epitomised in its unique War Cry which spurs the Scinde Horse soldiers to decimate the enemy – Jai Mata Ki! Jai Chhatrapati Ki! Har Har Mahadev! Bole So Nihal – Sat Sri Akal! Hat Ja ___ Here I Come!!!

Battle of Meeanee

The Battle of Meeanee in The Illustrated History of the British Empire, as part of Sir Charles Napier's advance guard of his expeditionary force to conquer the province of Scinde, the Scinde Horse came across the forward elements of the combined forces of the Waziri tribals of Sind, led by Mir Nuseer Khan, entrenched in the Fulaillee Nala, near Meeanee, 23 miles ahead of Hyderabad, the capital town of Sind. Along with the Scinde Horse, there were amongst others, 5 Raj Rif (Napiers Rifles), the Cheshire Regiment and the Poona Horse, bringing up the rear, with the Madras Engineers providing engineering support. Not to be deterred, the regiment reconnoitred the area and made an outflanking move through dense forest and broken country, most unsuitable for horses. In an unparalleled outflanking manoeuvre in which over 70 horses died of fatigue, the Scinde Horse surprised the enemy by appearing at their rear and routed them in a cavalry charge, capturing the principal standard of Mir Nuseer Khan in the process. Seeing their Standard captured, the enemy capitulated and Sind was conquered. Sir Charles Napier cryptically signalled back "Pecavi" (I have Sinned (Sind)).

As a reward for this cavalry charge, unsurpassed in the annals of warfare, the regiment was presented eight cavalry standards (one per troop) and also allowed to retain Mir Nuseer Khan's principal standard, with the ‘Hand of Allah’ atop it, as its main Standard. This hand of Allah has played a major role in looking after the Regiment in times of need, ever since. The Scinde Horse has had the unique privilege of carrying Nine Standards on parade.

The Scinde Horse was tasked as the rear guard for the forces returning from the First Afghan Campaign. On 26 Feb 1878, it was at Khushk-e-Nakhud near the Afghan border that the regiment had taken an administrative halt and was carrying out saddlery inspection, that the early warning elements reported a large body of Afghan tribesmen approaching the camp. The men hastily gathered their weapons and mounted their horses, without saddles to engage the approaching enemy. The regiment, led by Maj Reynolds, charged the enemy before it could form up near the camp and routed them, killing many times their own numbers. Unfortunately, Maj Reynolds was martyred in this charge. Maj Douglas Giles, who was there, reduced an eyewitness account in a famous painting, 10' x 6', completing it in 1883. This painting was popularly displayed in the Louvre in Paris, from 1913 to 1921, till it found its final place in the Officers' Mess. It is unique in that it has every eye-catching detail. The colours used are from natural pigments and regain their brightness when exposed to the sun. In the Officers' Mess Ante Room, this painting is faced by a lone Horseman's Silver Trophy, representing Maj Reynolds. Ever after this Battle, The Scinde horseman never removes his sword from his person. "Taiyar-bar-Taiyar" they call it. That is why, in the Officer's Mess, now-a-days, where normally, the Belt is removed on entry, symbolising removal of the Sword, Scinde horsemen continue to wear their belt at all times

The antique militaria objects of British Raj Period are extremely scarce, and highly collectable throughout the entire world of militaria collectors, especially swords and headdress.

The sword is bright steel with highly attractive finish snd and a near mint VR cypher etched panelled blade with maker mark. The hilt is the pierced scroll ancanthus leaf pattern ceasing with its original wire bound sharkskin grip. It also has its very very rare, original red cloth lined original buff hide inner liner . The external steel does have traces of old surface age pitting.  read more

Code: 25818

A Fabulous & Most Rare British, Hand Made Griffiths ‘Jacob’s Double Barrel Rifle Carbine, From The Early British Raj. Period Bespoke Commissioned From Griffiths Circa 1848 For An Officer of Jacobs Horse

From the same officer that used in combat our Scind Horse officer's sword that arrived this week.

The gun is the very inspiration for the famous Military Jacob's Rifle, used by the Scinde Irregular Force, Jacob’s Rifles, in the early 1850's, and this was commissioned for an officer of the regiment.

Apparently experimental versions of the rifle were manufactured for Jacob by George H. Daw, and we are told, Griffiths, who (among others) later advertised these fabulous hand made bespoke rifles of Daws gun.
A writer of the period described shooting a rifle of this form:
“The recoil is by no means pleasant. Jacob recommended a powder charge of some 2 drams 68 grains of gunpowder! This rifle does not seem to have any advantages at sporting ranges; but for military purposes it has been strongly recommended. Especially in reference to the explosive shells which are used with it.the shells require a short stout barrel, and cannot be used with a long thin one, like the Enfield still, Enfield-style rifles were actually manufactured with Jacob rifling, and seemed relatively popular. For killing large animals, like the elephant or rhinoceros, they are particularly qualified; and I should strongly recommend elephant hunters to examine the merits of this rifle. This rifle was made to accompany the howdah pistol as the big game hunting rifle to be equally at home on foot, on horseback or while standing in a howdah on one's elephant. But also for perfect use in Indian irregular cavalry by gentlemen officers. The brass mounts are superbly engraved throughout, including a Bengal tiger and lion below mount Kilimanjaro, and profuse, highly accomplished decorative scrolling.

This is a finest gentleman's hand made double rifle, circa 1848, made by Griffiths of England, it is also bearing Queen Victoria's crown mark to both locks, which would further indicate government military service. By comparing the Jacob's Rifle by photograph, to this fine rifle alongside each other, one can easily see where the inspiration came from. This gun also bears influences from the design of the earlier British military Baker and contemporary Brunswick rifles, with a near identical patchbox arrangement to Jacobs rifles but rectangular.

The Jacob's rifle was designed by General Jacobs of the Honourable East India Co. who was so admired and respected by all who knew him, for his intelligence and skill of command, he had a city named after him, in modern day Pakistan, called Jacobabad. He had spent 25 years improving rifled firearms, carrying on experiments unrivalled even by public bodies. A range of 200 yards sufficed in cantonments, but at Jacobabad he had to go into the desert to set up butts at a range of 2000 yards. He went for a four grooved rifle and had numerous experimental guns manufactured in London by the leading gunsmith George Daw and completely at his expense. Jacob, like Joseph Whitworth, was renowned not only as a soldier but as a mathematician, and his rifle was as unconventional as its designer. Rather than using a small .45 caliber bore Jacob stayed with more conventional .57-58 caliber (Bill Adams theorizes that this would allow use of standard service ammo in a pinch). In any case his rifle used four deep grooves and a conical bullet with corresponding lugs. Though unusual the Jacob?s rifle, precision made in London by master gunsmiths like George Daw, quickly gained a reputation for accuracy at extended ranges. They appealed in in particular to wealthy aristocratic scientists like Lord Kelvin, who swore by his. Jacob wanted to build a cannon on the same pattern, but died early at age 45.
A few Jacob’s were used during the American Civil War, and those were privately owned, usually by men able to afford the best. There is one account of one of Berdan’s men using one (the chaplain, Lorenzo Barber), who kept one barrel of his double rifle loaded with buckshot and the other with ball.

Jacob's Rifles was a regiment founded by Brigadier John Jacob CB in 1858. Better known as the commandant of the Sind Horse and Jacob's Horse, and the founder of Jacobabad, the regiment of rifles he founded soon gained an excellent reputation. It became after partition part of the Pakistani Army, whereas Jacob's Horse was assigned to the Indian Army. A number of his relatives and descendants served in the Regiment, notably Field Marshal Sir Claud Jacob, Lieutenant-Colonel John Jacob and Brigadier Arthur Legrand Jacob, Claud's brother. As commander of the Scinde Irregular Horse, Jacob had become increasingly frustrated with the inferior weapons issued to his Indian cavalrymen. Being a wealthy man, he spent many years and much money on developing the perfect weapon for his 'sowars'. He eventually produced the rifle that bears his name. It could be sighted to 2000 yards (1 830m), and fire explosive bullets designed to destroy artillery limbers. It also sported a 30 inch (76,2cm) bayonet based on the Scottish claymore.

Jacob was an opinionated man who chose to ignore changing trends in firearm development, and he adopted a pattern of rifling that was both obsolete and troublesome. Nevertheless, his influence was such that during the Mutiny he was permitted to arm a new regiment with his design of carbine. It was named Jacob's Rifles.

Orders for the manufacture of the carbine and bayonet were placed in Britain, and all was set for its demonstration when Jacob died. In the hope the East India Company would honour the order, production continued for a little over a year. This gun is overall in super condition with excellent action. A most rare and highly desirable gun indeed, a super gentleman and officer's example.

We show in the gallery a photo of a most similar Jacob's military rifle in it's case with accessories to compare the two side by side, this is for comparison information only.
As with all our antique guns no license is required as they are all unrestricted antique collectables  read more

Code: 20842

A Good & Rare Antique, Malaysian, Kampilan Sword. A Sword Very Rarely Seen in Europe. The Kapampangan Name of the Kampilan was "Talibong" and The Hilt on the Talibong Represented the Dragon Naga,

A rare antique tribal sword, with a somewhat crude carved hilt, but superbly effective in the terrain and jungles of the Philippines.

The standard kampilan is a type of single-edged long sword, used in the Philippine islands of Mindanao, Visayas, and Luzon. This unusual variant has a long 33.5 inch double edged blade more reminiscent of a European broadsword, more similar to the sword of Datu Lapu-Lapu, legendary warrior Philippine king of the Mactan. Very likely a good early German trade blade.

The kampilan has a distinct profile, with the tapered blade being much broader and thinner at the point than at its base, sometimes with a protruding spikelet along the flat side of the tip and a bifurcated hilt which is believed to represent a mythical creature's open mouth.

The Maguindanao and the Maranao of mainland Mindanao preferred this weapon as opposed to the Tausug of Sulu who favoured the barung. The Kapampangan name of the Kampilan was "Talibong" and the hilt on the Talibong represented the dragon Naga, however the creature represented varies between different ethnic groups. Its use by the Illocanos have also been seen in various ancient records.

A notable wielder of the kampilan was Datu Lapu-Lapu (the king of Mactan) and his warriors, who defeated the Spaniards and killed Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan at the Battle of Mactan on April 27, 1521.

The mention of the kampilan in ancient Filipino epics originating from other non-Muslim areas such as the Hiligaynon Hinilawod and the Ilocano Biag ni Lam-Ang is possible evidence for the sword's widespread usage throughout the archipelago during the ancient times. Today, the kampilan is portrayed in Filipino art and ancient tradition. The hilt is quite long in order to counterbalance the weight and length of the blade and is made of hardwood. As with the blade, the design of the hilt's profile is relatively consistent from blade to blade, combining to make the kampilan an effective combat weapon.

The complete tang of the kampilan disappears into a crossguard, which is often decoratively carved in an okir (geometric or flowing) pattern.The guard prevents the enemy's weapon from sliding all the way down the blade onto bearer's hand and also prevents the bearer's hand from sliding onto the blade while thrusting.

The most distinctive design element of the hilt is the Pommel, which is shaped to represent a creature's wide open mouth. The represented creature varies from sword to sword depending on the culture. Sometimes it is a real animal such as a monitor lizard or a crocodile, but more often the animal depicted is mythical, with the naga and the bakonawa being popular designs. Some kampilan also have animal or human hair tassels attached to the hilt as a form of decoration.

No scabbard  read more

Code: 16828

A Wonderful, Around 1200 Year Old Original Viking Bronze Ring, Four Claw Bezel Setting With Its Original Amber Glass Cabochon Gem. Punched Dot Decor Around The Ovoid Surround Of The Claw Setting

Like many of our selection of antiquities, many originally arrived in England as souvenirs of a Grand Tour, from around 200 years ago. Two such pieces were Viking rings, around 1200 years old, recovered from Normandy, Northern France. Likely from the Viking sieges of Paris.

Although feminine in its appearance men wore such rings as did female Viking warriors.

While the majority of Viking warriors were men, some women actively participated in combat as shieldmaidens, and their presence is attested in historical texts and archaeological findings.

A notable example is the Birka female Viking warrior, whose grave was found to contain weapons like a sword, ax, spear, and shields. DNA analysis confirmed the individual was female, challenging earlier assumptions that the grave belonged to a male warrior.

Viking sagas and historical accounts mention shield-maidens, women who fought alongside men. These stories often depict them as skilled warriors, sometimes even legendary figures. Valkyries: In Norse mythology, Valkyries were female figures who chose which warriors would die in battle and be taken to Valhalla.
The evidence suggests that while Viking women warriors were not the norm, their presence in battles and as figures in legends and sagas is undeniable. The discovery of the Birka female warrior { a Viking warrior, whose grave was found to contain weapons like a sword, ax, spear, and shields. DNA analysis confirmed the individual was female, challenging earlier assumptions that the grave belonged to a male warrior.} and other archaeological finds, along with historical accounts, have contributed to a more nuanced understanding of the role of women in Viking society and warfare.

Saxo Grammaticus reported that shield-maidens fought on the side of the Danes at the Battle of Brávellir in the year 750:
"Now out of the town of Sle, under the captains Hetha (Heid) and Wisna, with Hakon Cut-cheek came Tummi the Sailmaker. On these captains, who had the bodies of women, nature bestowed the souls of men. Webiorg was also inspired with the same spirit, and was attended by Bo (Bui) Bramason and Brat the Jute, thirsting for war."

There were two Norse sieges of Paris. The first was in 845; and though a fairly minor affair in terms of battle, it had great symbolic significance. The second was roughly two generations later, in 885-886; was much larger (and deadlier); and had greater direct ramifications. Before the first siege, Viking raids were a new and growing problem for the peoples of Western Europe; but hitherto raids had been made by relatively small war bands bent on plunder. The Scandinavian adventurers might sack monasteries or villages, but would usually shun larger, better defended targets (Churchill, 1956). However, success was making the Norsemen bolder.

Aware of this growing threat, the aging emperor, Charlemagne, built a series of maritime defenses to protect his coasts and rivers from these new dragon ships. For the first few decades, the defenses worked; but the Vikings were growing in number, ability, and ambition and a new breed of leaders was coming to the fore. One of these leaders was a man the Frankish chroniclers call Reginheri; but who has since been widely equated with the semi-legendary figure Ragnar Lothbrok (Dzhak, 2016). Under Ragnar, Vikings were ready to step foot on the world stage. They were ready to capture the jewel of Western Europe, the city of Paris.

So, in Spring of 845, 120 dragon ships carrying about 5000 Scandinavian warriors, broke through the late emperor’s defenses and surrounded the walled city of Paris (Dzhak, 2016). In the ninth century, Paris was already more than a thousand years old. It was wealthy from its position as a trading center, and was the seat of one of Charlemagne’s three competing heirs, Charles the Bald. At this time, the heart of the city was confined to the islands in the center of the Seine, the Île de la Cité where the cathedral of Notre Dame stands today. This position made Paris eminently defensible in the eyes of the Frankish elite that ruled there; but it made it easily surrounded by the ship-born Vikings.

Richard Lassels, an expatriate Roman Catholic priest, first used the phrase “Grand Tour” in his 1670 book Voyage to Italy, published posthumously in Paris in 1670. In its introduction, Lassels listed four areas in which travel furnished "an accomplished, consummate traveler" with opportunities to experience first hand the intellectual, the social, the ethical, and the political life of the Continent.

The English gentry of the 17th century believed that what a person knew came from the physical stimuli to which he or she has been exposed. Thus, being on-site and seeing famous works of art and history was an all important part of the Grand Tour. So most Grand Tourists spent the majority of their time visiting museums and historic sites.

Once young men began embarking on these journeys, additional guidebooks and tour guides began to appear to meet the needs of the 20-something male and female travelers and their tutors traveling a standard European itinerary. They carried letters of reference and introduction with them as they departed from southern England, enabling them to access money and invitations along the way.

With nearly unlimited funds, aristocratic connections and months or years to roam, these wealthy young tourists commissioned paintings, perfected their language skills and mingled with the upper crust of the Continent.

The wealthy believed the primary value of the Grand Tour lay in the exposure both to classical antiquity and the Renaissance, and to the aristocratic and fashionably polite society of the European continent. In addition, it provided the only opportunity to view specific works of art, and possibly the only chance to hear certain music. A Grand Tour could last from several months to several years. The youthful Grand Tourists usually traveled in the company of a Cicerone, a knowledgeable guide or tutor.

The ‘Grand Tour’ era of classical acquisitions from history existed up to around the 1850’s, and extended around the whole of Europe, Egypt, the Ottoman Empire, and the Holy Land.
1 inch, maximum ext. size, UK ring size, 0 1/2

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 trading  read more

Code: 25803