This painting (painted in 1827) is interesting because it shows that officers did not immediately pu

This painting (painted in 1827) is interesting because it shows that officers did not immediately purchase a new sword when a new pattern was introduced. Officers of the HEIC armies usually followed the regulation patterns used by officers of the British Army. In 1822 a new sword was introduced for infantry officers. Presumably Captain McMullin’s sword, a Pattern 1796 Infantry Officer’s Sword, was still serviceable and so he continued to use it. Officers were allowed to use their old swords until they were no longer serviceable. Swords were an expensive piece of kit, so I am sure many officers appreciated being able to put off such expenses until absolutely necessary.Captain Robert McMullin (1786–1865)by Jivan RamDate painted: 1827Oil on canvas, 62 x 41.5 cmCollection: British LibraryMcMullin is standing against the church and cantonments at Meerut. -- source link

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