Lot 139
A GEORGIAN NAVAL DIRK
A Presentation Georgian Naval Dirk, presented to Wm Burnett Surgeon on HMS Defiance. Later Sir Wm Burnett KCB. FRS Surgeon General to the R Navy.
The dirk is of some quality with gilt fittings, to both hilt and scabbard. Engraved on the scabbard throat mount is; Presented to Surgeon Wm Burnett by his fellow officers on HMS Defiance.
The ivory grip has silver stylised initials attached, a lions head pommel and chain guard and reverse quillions.
The very curved blade of 14" length, is heavily rust pitted with traces of decoration evident.
Sir W Burnett was born in 1779 and died in 1861. Born in Montrose Scotland, he attended Montrose School. He was entered as Masters Mate in HMS Edgar, whilst still training for his MD in Edinburgh.
Whilst serving with Sir John Jervis on HMS Goliath, he was present at both Cadiz and St Vincent. Present at both the Battles of The Nile & Trafalgar.
He later served as Director General of Naval Hospitals and Fleets. Burnett Bay in Canada is named after him. Surgeon to William 1V, Knighted 1831 and honoured by Queen Victoria in 1850.
See Illustration
See Illustration
