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Prince Albert used photography to document exhibitions and works of art

Francis Bedford (1815-94)

Works of Art Exhibited at Marlborough House, 1854: Cingalese Sword Hilt 1854

Albumen print | 17.9 x 11.4 cm (image) | RCIN 2800193

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Photograph of a kastane, a ceremonial sword associated with Sri Lanka. The crossguard, or quililon,  and finger guards are chiselled in the form of monster heads. The pommel is in the form of a dragon's head. The hilt is covered with richly embossed gold work and the sheath, only partially visible, is covered with chased and embossed gold foliate ornament.
  • Creator(s)

    View person page

    Francis Bedford (1815-94) (photographer)

  • 17.9 x 11.4 cm (image)

  • 'Cingalese Sword Hilt'

  • Commissioned by Henry Cole. Later acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

  • Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • photographs
    Subject(s)
    • Places
      • Europe
        • Great Britain
          • England
            • Greater London [England]
              • London [Greater London]
                • City of Westminster
                  • Marlborough House [London]
    • Science, Medicine and Technology
      • Engineering & Technology
        • Military engineering
          • Arms (weapons)
            • Side arms (weapons)
              • Swords
    • Natural Sciences & Mathematics
      • Zoology
        • Animals
          • Mythical creatures
            • Dragons
              • Chinese Dragons