This fine sword is at the centre of the remarkable story of a
Scottish soldier and his victory over one of the greatest opponents
of the British domination of India, Tipu, Sultan of Mysore.
Above: Colour engraving showing the death of
Tipu Sultan.
A military history
David Baird (1757-1829) was the son of an Edinburgh merchant
family. Like many Scots of similar background he followed a
military career, much of it in India.
Mysore had long stood in the way of growing British influence in
southern India. In May 1799, Baird commanded the force that stormed
Tipu’s capital, Seringapatam, resulting in the death of the Sultan
and the conquest of Mysore. News of Baird’s victory sparked public
celebrations at home, although it is his defeated opponent, Tipu,
who is remembered today as a hero in India and Pakistan.
Above: Oil painting of Baird and British officers discovering
the body of Tipu Saltan, by Arthur William Devis.
As well as its military importance, Seringapatam was a rich
prize in terms of loot. A large sum of prize money (over £1
million) was distributed amongst the victorious army. However,
Baird was quickly removed from his position as governor of the
captured city and replaced by the politically powerful Colonel
Arthur Wellesley (who later became the Duke of Wellington). Baird
reacted angrily. Baird’s senior officers also believed that he had
been denied proper credit for the victory and so they placed an
order for this splendid sword to be made for him.
A very special sword
The sword, which cost the officers 200 guineas, has a gold hilt
embellished with diamonds and enamel work depicting the storming of
Seringapatam. The scabbard is made of gold mounted leather.
The sword on display
The sword was gifted by a descendant of Sir David Baird and has
been displayed in the National War Museum since the 1930s.
The sword now takes pride of place in the Discoveries gallery, Level 1, National Museum of
Scotland which explores Scots’ achievements in leadership and
inventiveness across the world and throughout the centuries.