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Farriers axe, c. 1820 (axe, farrier)
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Farriers axe, c. 1820 (axe, farrier)
5929275 Farriers axe, c.1820 (axe, farrier) by British School, (19th century); National Army Museum, London; (add.info.: Farriers axe, 1820 (c).
This gruesome object is a farriers axe dating from the early 19th century. It belonged to the Royal Horse Guards. The spike on the axe was used to put severely injured horses out of their misery as humanely as possible.
In order to account for all animals killed in action, the sharp axe blade was used to chop off the hoof of the deceased horse that was marked with the its regimental number. Army farriers still carry axes like this at ceremonial occasions - fortunately they do not use them anymore.); © National Army Museum
Media ID 25054120
© National Army Museum / Bridgeman Images
Animal Management Cavalry Regiment Farrier Farriers Monogram Profession
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This haunting image captures a relic from the past, a farriers axe dating back to the early 19th century. Once belonging to the Royal Horse Guards, this gruesome tool served a somber purpose. The spike on the axe was employed to swiftly end the suffering of severely injured horses in battle, providing them with as humane an exit as possible. But there was more to this macabre instrument than meets the eye. In order to keep meticulous records of all animals lost in action, the sharp blade of the axe would be used to sever and preserve a hoof from each fallen horse. This hoof would then be marked with its regimental number, ensuring that no sacrifice went unnoticed or unaccounted for. Though times have changed and technology has advanced, army farriers still carry similar axes during ceremonial occasions today. Thankfully, their use is now purely symbolic rather than practical. The significance of this photograph lies not only in its historical context but also in its representation of animal management within military operations. It serves as a reminder of both the sacrifices made by our loyal companions on four legs and the dedication shown by those who cared for them amidst chaos and conflict. Image credit: Bridgeman Images via Fine Art Finder
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