Is this a Mortuary Sword?

[Jim McDougall]

Originally Posted by M ELEY

Wow, these are two incredible swords of the 'Mortuary' type! I've always wanted one of these! One can definitely see the Hounslow touch on these, just like the later English iron-hilt naval swords post-1680's. Jim, I'm with you on loving those pieces that display both their age and their use in the field. It would seem these swords served as inspirations to the later Walloon patterns, or where they contemporary?

Thank you Capn!
These were somewhat contemporary and may have even begun in England with a simple bilobate guard, with the design transmitting to the Low Countries.
While I am not particularly well versed in the history of these regions, it seems the 'walloon' term derives from a language, people and loosely defined areas of these countries including primarily Belgium, parts of France and Netherlands.

Its was popularized there and I think it was the French who began the term. This type of guard of course influenced the small swords and later hangers as well.

[Bryce]

G'day Ulrik,
That style of blade is commonly found on mortuary hilts. Here is one in my collection which was later mounted with a 1788 pattern heavy cavalry officer's style hilt.
Cheers,
Bryce