Victorian or early Edwardian Pipe Majors Pipe Banner to the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers

Very scarce Late Victorian or early Edwardian Pipe Majors Pipe Banner to the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers. Measures 16 inches wide and 19 inches long. Red Silk backing with silver braiding in excellent condition. Large Regimental Badge to centre in silver braid on green silk, smaller version of same to the top of the banner. This design on reverse side. 3 ribbon fixtures to fix to bass drone. Superb scarce item. 

Period: Late Victorian (circa 1880s-1901) to early Edwardian (1901-1910)

Regiment: Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, a distinguished Irish infantry regiment of the British Army.

Fabric: Typically made from high-quality silk or velvet, which provides a rich and vibrant background.

Embroideries: Intricate embroidery using gold or silver bullion thread, silk threads, and sometimes appliqués.

Shape: The banner is rectangular with a swallow-tailed or triangular fly end.

Regimental Badge: Prominently displayed in the center, the badge of the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers includes:

Castle and St. George: A depiction of Enniskillen Castle with St. George slaying the dragon.

Crown: Above the castle, representing loyalty to the Crown.

Sphinx: Often included to commemorate the regiment’s service in Egypt.

Scrolls and Banners: Bearing the regiment’s name and battle honors.

Thistles, Shamrocks, and Roses: Reflecting the union of Scotland, Ireland, and England, often embroidered around the central badge.

Battle honours: Names of significant battles in which the regiment participated, intricately embroidered around the main emblem.

Regimental Motto: "Nec Aspera Terrent" (Nor do Difficulties Deter), often included on a scroll.

Fringe: Gold or silver bullion fringe running along the edges.

Tassels: Decorative tassels, often in matching bullion thread, hanging from the corners or ends of the banner.

Pole Sleeve: A sleeve on the hoist side for attaching the banner to a pipe or standard.

Additional Decoration: May include small medallions or additional insignia along the sleeve or at the top and bottom.

Regimental Pride: The pipe banner is a symbol of regimental pride and heritage, carried by the Pipe Major during parades and ceremonial occasions.

Artisan Craftsmanship: Reflects the high level of craftsmanship of the period, with each banner being a unique piece of art.

Rich and Ornate: The banner is visually striking, with rich colors and elaborate embroidery.

Symbolic: Every element, from the central badge to the fringe, is deeply symbolic of the regiment’s history and honors.

Heritage: It serves as a physical representation of the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers’ storied past and traditions.

A late Victorian or early Edwardian Pipe Major's Pipe Banner to the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers is not only a beautiful artifact but also a testament to the regiment's history and the intricate craftsmanship of the era.