91st Argyllshire Highlanders or Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders a fine silver Victorian or Edwardian Officers Sgiann Dhu with Princess Louise's crest. Sold by Anderson & Co Edinburgh. Some minor rust spots.
The Sgian Dubh (anglicized as "Skean Dhu") is a traditional Scottish knife worn as part of Highland dress.
Princess Louise, Duchess of Argyll (1848-1939), was the daughter of Queen Victoria. Her association with the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders (Princess Louise's) Regiment, which was named in her honour, means her crest would be a significant mark on items belonging to the regiment. This crest typically features a boar's head (from the Campbell clan) and a laurel wreath.
Features of a Victorian or Edwardian Officers' Sgian Dubh:
Material: Fine silver was commonly used for officer's Sgian Dubhs, often hallmarked with maker's marks, date letters, and assay office marks indicating the place of origin (e.g., Edinburgh or Glasgow).
Blade: High-quality steel, often etched or engraved with regimental symbols or mottos.
Handle: Could be made of ebony, bog oak, or other dark woods, often intricately carved. Silver fittings and mounts, including the pommel and ferrule, might feature Celtic knotwork or heraldic engravings.
Scabbard: Usually leather, sometimes with silver mounts matching the handle, engraved or embossed with regimental insignia.
Crest: The crest of Princess Louise would be prominently featured, possibly on the handle, pommel, or scabbard. This includes her specific heraldic elements such as the boar’s head and a laurel wreath, signifying her connection to the regiment.
Regimental Symbols: The presence of specific regimental symbols or Princess Louise's crest helps in confirming its authenticity and historical significance.
Condition and Craftsmanship: The level of detail in the engraving, the quality of materials, and the overall condition of the Sgian Dubh can provide insights into its provenance and value.
91st Argyllshire Highlanders: Formed in 1794, they were later amalgamated with the 93rd (Sutherland Highlanders) Regiment in 1881 to form the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders.
Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders: This regiment saw extensive service during the Victorian and Edwardian periods, including during the Boer War and World War I. Officers' equipment from this time is highly prized by collectors.
Conclusion:
A fine silver Victorian or Edwardian Officer’s Sgian Dubh with Princess Louise’s crest from the Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders would be a valuable and historically significant artifact. Its identification would rely on the detailed examination of its materials, craftsmanship, and heraldic elements. If you have such an item, consulting with a specialist in military antiques or a reputable appraiser would provide further insights into its authenticity and value.