Pattern 1821 Indian Army Officer’s sword belonging to Brigadier General Sir Henry Lawrence, 1855 circa...

Pattern 1821 Indian Army Officer’s sword belonging to Brigadier General Sir Henry Montgomery Lawrence, 1855 circa. Like many officers who served in India, Lawrence preferred an Indian blade for his sword. These blades, which were more curved than the British pattern, were better suited to the kind of combat encountered in India. This particular sword has a typical Indian blade similar to those used on the native tulwars, while retaining the regulation 3-bar hilt. Lawrence organised the defence of the Lucknow Residency during the Indian Mutiny (1857-1859). On 2 July 1857 he was mortally wounded when a shell exploded in his apartment.