ENGLISH PLUG BAYONET, JAMES II 1686

Charles II’s restoration to the throne of England in 1660 evolved into intense anti-Catholicism 1678-81 when it was revealed that his brother, James II, presumptive successor to the throne had converted. The country was divided and the Whig and Tory parties formed. James’ reign 1685-88 was marked by intense religious and philosophical division, ultimately resulting in James' deposition in the “Glorius Revolution” of 1688 and his replacement by his Protestant daughter Mary. This plug bayonet dates to that period and was carried by a supporter of James. The hilt is of typical form (plug bayonets were popular for about two decades at the end of the 17th century) with the quillons and pommel terminal modeled as helmeted warriors. The triangular blade bears the motto God Save James The 2 and Anno Domini 1686. The reverse is inscribed Pro Christo Et Patria, flanking a figure of a Bishop. Three other examples, all of the military forms with the same markings are known. The blade base retains a paper label which might be able to provide further information about this rare example.