Victorian Scottish Basket Hilt Broadsword Built for a Child, double edge ‘claymore’ blade etched PILLIN MAKER GERRARD ST SOHO LONDON and cut with a pair of fullers, etched with bunches of thistles and blue bells amidst scrolling foliage, German silver basket hilt of traditional form, pierced with heart-shaped openings, thistle-shaped pommel, retaining its original buckskin lining faced with red cloth and with purple tassels, wire bound fish skin covered grip, in its leather scabbard with border engraved German silver mounts, twin suspension rings, ball finialled chape, the locket pierced for a screw (see below). Blade 44cms, overall 55cms. Good condition and age patina. George and Alfred Pillin are recorded working at 31, Gerrard Street, Soho, London 1862-1880. The screw (missing) was inserted into the locket whenever required for the avoidance of ‘juvenile mischief’. Charming and well made item.