Sword

Description

Although firepower and shorter blades for combat displaced the cut and thrust sword from combat, its lean elegant form, fine steel blade, and figural pommel remained resplendent parts of an officer’s military dress. This presentation sword’s cast and chased gold hilt, etched blade decoration, and gold scabbard mounts, represent superlative work by several artisans. Fletcher & Gardiner designed the whole, created the gold elements, and collaborated with cutlers William Rose & Sons and etcher John Meer (d. 1834) for the blade. Bald eagles (one on the pommel, three on the counter guard, and one the blade) blend patriotic iconography with naval and mythological images on the hilt and blade. This synthesis of ornament and style reflects a high point for the firm’s sword design. Ballard’s was one of three swords requested from Fletcher & Gardiner in 1828 by the State of Maryland. Letters between Governor Daniel Martin’s secretary and Thomas Fletcher describe this sword, which recognizes Ballard’s service on the Constitution ("Old Ironsides"). Henry Ballard served under Captain Charles Stewart in February 1815 when they challenged two British vessels (Cyane and Levant) in a twilight chase off the coast of Portugal. The blade includes a moonlit scene of the three ships. Stewart placed Ballard as captain on the Levant, which he commanded until recaptured. Ballard received this sword 14 years later in the Annapolis council chambers. Governor Martin declared: “On you sir, is bestowed the richest reward the patriot asks, the gratitude and applause of his countrymen, of which this sword is intended to be the testimonial…” Henry Ballard responded: “It will be a source of lasting gratification to reflect that for an achievement in which I bore an humble part (and in which many of the brave sons of Maryland participated,) the legislature of my native state, has bestowed upon me, a vote of thanks and this sword. I accept and shall preserve it, as the most valued gift of my generous country men…”