Sword with Scabbard of Faustin I (1782–1867), Emperor of Haiti

Robert Mole

1850 · Steel, silver, gold, wood, textile (velvet) · Arms and Armor

This lavish ceremonial sword was made for Faustin-Élie Soulouque (1782–1867), who ruled Haiti as Emperor Faustin I from 1849 to 1859. It was presented to him by The Grand Masonic Lodge of Haiti in 1850. According to family tradition, Henry Delafield (1792–1875) later received it as a gift from Faustin. Delafield was a prominent businessman who served as Consul for Haiti in New York from 1851 to 1859. The sword remained in the Delafield family until it was bequeathed to the Museum in 2012.

Artist

Robert Mole

Date

1850

Medium

Steel, silver, gold, wood, textile (velvet)

Culture

British, Birmingham

Department

Arms and Armor

Credit line

Bequest of William S. Delafield Sr., 2012