workmanship. The pommel is pear-shaped and faceted; the quillons, which are enriched with a gilded scroll pattern, are curved, with rounded and drooping terminations.
The earlier of the two swords at Newcastle-on-Tyne is a fine example of a state sword of the middle of the XVth century (Fig. 702). The hilt is that of the original sword, and is of steel plated with silver-gilt. The pommel is of great length (5 inches), of lozenge form, with a deep central groove. Both sides are chased with spirited leafwork and the groove with a slight running scroll. The central portion of the quillon has three deep grooves, being not unlike that of the Chester sword. The arms of the quillons are long and flat, and curved slightly downwards with a sharp curl at the ends; they are chased with a running leaf pattern on either side of the central ridge. It has been suggested that the quillons are of XVIth century date. The blade is apparently one of the XVIth century.
Of the two swords found at Gloucester, the older, now known as the "Mourning" sword (Fig. 703 a, b), is possibly that provided in accordance with Richard III's Charter. The quillons, however, appear to be of late XVIth century date; but as the whole hilt is now painted black, it is somewhat difficult to determine that point. We have not seen this sword; but, judged by the illustration, the pommel, either side of which is embossed with a rose, may possibly be the original. The blade, which is of Solingen or Passau manufacture with the running wolf-mark, is probably of late XVIth century date. The scabbard is covered with black velvet, which is embroidered with black silk.
Hereford's second sword, known as the "Steel" sword, and formerly used on occasions of mourning, can be accepted as dating from the latter part of the XVth century (Fig. 704). It is called the "Steel" sword from an idea that the hilt and pommel are of that metal; they are actually, however, of bronze or latten, with traces of the original gilding. The pommel is heart-shaped, with the arms of England on one side, and on the other a shield of the old city arms of Hereford. Both these shields have the spandrels filled with a rose and foliage, and were originally enamelled; slight traces of the colouring still remain. The quillons are flat and curved, with drooping ends. On one side is engraved:—
MAIOR CIVITATIS HEREFORDIE
The grip as well as the blade is Elizabethan. The entire hilt was until recently painted black.
The Chester sword (Fig. 705) is said, on the authority of the Cowper
