2108 Antique Sword

2108) A Scottish Basket-Hilt Broadsword with Thistle Decoration, Circa late 1700s:

Introduction: The Scottish basket-hilted broadsword is a quintessential military and ceremonial weapon deeply tied to Highland history. The thistle is a deliberately Scottish national symbol of toughness and ability to thrive in harsh conditions, in the Scottish tradition.

Description: Constructed with a robust, fully enclosed steel cage (basket) meticulously formed from intersecting bars, specifically designed to offer comprehensive protection to the swordsman’s hand, with circular metal medallions integrated into the side panels of the basket guard. These plates are pierced and chiseled in the form of a crowned Scottish Thistle surrounded by its leaves—the enduring national emblem of Scotland. The grip handle is wrapped in texturized shagreen (ray skin), providing a durable, high-traction texture favored on high-quality swords to maintain a secure hold even when wet. The decorative wire wrap that typically spirals along the grooves of such handles appears to be missing or worn away over time; at the very top sits a solid, heavy pommel with a distinct checkered surface pattern. This acts as a counterweight to balance the heavy cutting blade.  The blade is a heavy cut-and-thrust military type featuring a prominent fuller down the center line near the hilt, designed to lighten the steel without sacrificing structural strength. 

Condition: Good. Looks better in person than in pictures. The steel guard and blade show pitting and oxidation, suggesting age and historical wear.

Approximate length: 38.5 inches.

Provenance: A fine Scottish collection.

Discussion: In the 17th and 18th centuries, Scottish arms and armor were characterized by a blend of traditional Highland weapons and the growing adoption of modern European military equipment.

 The primary weapons of this period included:

Basket-Hilted Broadsword: This weapon became an iconic symbol of the Scottish Highlander and was the pre-eminent sword of the era. Its distinctive basket guard was designed to protect the hand, as the use of armor and gauntlets declined with the rise of firearms.

• Muskets and Pistols: Firearms, including muskets for infantry and pistols for officers and gentry, became a common issue. Scottish pistols were often all-metal, featured elaborate decoration (sometimes inlaid with silver), a distinctive “ram’s horn” or “fishtail” butt, a belt hook, and notably, no trigger guard.

• Dirk: This was a long, single-edged dagger (Gaelic: biodag) carried as a secondary weapon or utility knife. The dirk was a multi-purpose tool and was often used in combination with a targe. The smaller “sgian dubh” also became more common later, especially after the ban on other weapons.
• Targe: A small, round shield, typically made of oak planks covered in leather and decorated with brass studs. The targe could be used defensively or offensively, sometimes fitted with a central spike. It was a key component of the traditional Highland “broadsword-and-targe” fighting style.
• Polearms: While less common than in earlier centuries, weapons such as pikes, halberds, and the Lochaber axe were still used by some Scottish forces, particularly Lowland levies or in the initial stages of a campaign before capturing better arms.

Conclusion: A good example of a  Scottish with a lot of Scottish pride. The owner says ….” sell it today”…. and priced it accordingly at a very good price. Even if you are not a Scottish broadsword aficionado, all early arms and armor collections should have at least one example in their collection. Scottish Arms and Armor have a strong following, and this would be an inexpensive addition to any collection.

All my items come with the following:

–Free shipping.

–10-day review period.

–Certificate of Authenticity.

–Autographed copy of my book.

–In the event of an international shipment, we will help assign the lowest correct Customs tariff so you pay the least.

This is a great example at a very reasonable price. ACT-NOW, so you will not be disappointed. They seldom come this nice and at this price!!!*