11th Foot The North Devon Regiment Georgian (Pre 1881) Officers Gorget with Regimental Identifiers on each side. A superb example in fine gilt complete with original rosettes in crimson lace. Georgian Crown and GR to centre XIth to rightside and Regt to the left side. The leather liner is intact and in good condition. The North Devon Regiment were renamed as the Devonshire Regiment in 1881. Price includes shipping to a UK address. International delivery is extra..
Price includes overnight delivery to a UK address.
The 11th Foot, also known as The North Devon Regiment, is a British Army infantry regiment with a rich history. Georgian-era (pre-1881) officers' gorgets from this regiment are significant artifacts. Here’s a brief overview of what these gorgets represent and their historical context:
Historical Context: 11th Foot (The North Devon Regiment). Formed in 1685, it is one of the oldest regiments in the British Army.
Participated in numerous conflicts, including the American War of Independence, the Napoleonic Wars, and various colonial campaigns.
Georgian Era: Refers to the period from 1714 to 1830-1837, during the reigns of the first four British monarchs of the House of Hanover: George I, George II, George III, and George IV.
In the military context, this era includes significant reforms and developments in uniforms and regalia.
Officers' Gorget Description: The gorget is a crescent-shaped piece of armor worn around the neck.
Originally part of a full suit of armour, by the 18th century, it became a symbolic item of rank for officers.
Typically made of metal (brass or silver), often decorated with regimental insignia or royal cyphers.
Features Specific to the 11th Foot: Would likely feature the regiment's insignia, which could include elements like the regimental number (XI) and other symbols related to Devon or the regiment’s heritage.
Might also include the royal cypher (e.g., "GR" for George Rex) of the reigning monarch.
Design Elements: Elaborate scrollwork and engravings.
Might have a polished finish with highlighted details to denote the officer's rank and regiment.
Collectors' Interest: Georgian gorgets are highly sought after by military history enthusiasts and collectors of militaria.
Their value can be influenced by condition, rarity, and the historical significance of the regiment.
Conclusion: The officers' gorget of the 11th Foot from the Georgian era is a symbol of the regiment's storied past and the evolution of military uniforms. It represents both the martial traditions and the artistry of military regalia from a bygone era.