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Collar badge, Bihar Light Horse, 1884 (brass)
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Collar badge, Bihar Light Horse, 1884 (brass)
5927520 Collar badge, Bihar Light Horse, 1884 (brass) by British School, (19th century); National Army Museum, London; (add.info.: Collar badge, Bihar Light Horse, 1884.
Brass badge in the form of a boar.
After the Indian Mutiny of 1857 concerns about future unrest and the threat to the European minority in Bihar led to The auxiiary formation of an unofficial corps. It was raised as a defence force by planters of the Tirhoot and Chapra districts in Bihar, India. The Soubah Behar Mounted Rifles Volunteer Corps was formerly established in 1862.
Pig-sticking, the hunting of wild boar with the lance, was a popular recreation for Indian Army cavalry units and may explain the adoption of the boar as the Bihar Light Horses emblem. The units commander petitioned the Secretary to the Government of India for the unit to be allowed to carry lances but this request was declined and the men were issued with carbines.
The auxiiary formation grew in size and reputation. In December 1883 the men of the Bihar Light Horse were invited to Calcutta to participate in exercises and drills. On 4 January 1884 the unit took part in the Proclamation Day proceedings where they were commended for their appearance by General Wilkinson, Commanding in Calcutta.
From the Field Marshal Sir John Chapple Indian Army Collection.); © National Army Museum
Media ID 25061318
© National Army Museum / Bridgeman Images
Army Organisation Auxiliary Boar Calcutta City Of Calcutta Inida
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a brass collar badge from 1884, belonging to the Bihar Light Horse. The badge takes the form of a boar, symbolizing the unit's connection to pig-sticking, a popular sport among Indian Army cavalry units at that time. Originally formed as an unofficial defense force by planters in Bihar following concerns about future unrest after the Indian Mutiny of 1857, the Bihar Light Horse gradually gained size and reputation. In December 1883, this esteemed unit was invited to Calcutta for exercises and drills. On January 4th, 1884, they participated in Proclamation Day proceedings where their appearance received commendation from General Wilkinson, who commanded in Calcutta. Despite their desire to carry lances during combat operations, the men were issued carbines instead. The significance of this collar badge lies not only in its intricate design but also in its representation of a unique chapter in history. It serves as a reminder of how communities came together to protect themselves amidst uncertain times and how recreational activities like pig-sticking influenced military traditions. Preserved within the Field Marshal Sir John Chapple Indian Army Collection at London's National Army Museum, this artifact offers us a glimpse into an era when courage and camaraderie prevailed on horseback. Through this print captured by Bridgeman Images for Fine Art Finder, we can appreciate both the artistry behind such badges and their historical importance within military regiments like the Bihar Light Horse.
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