From the Collection #5 - Trophy of Arms
Part of the "From the Collection" series prepared and distributed to a subscribers' list during 2022 as a follow on to the "Virtual Visit" series initiated during the COVID lockdowns of 2020 and 2021 The collection focus of this item is the trophy of arms bayonet display featuring the Western Australian heraldic swan and the motto "Vigilans"
A trophy of arms in art and architecture is “a real or depicted artistically assembled display of weaponry or other militaria, often captured from a defeated enemy, as an ornament designed for the purpose of triumphalist display by a victor or as a show of military prowess or efficiency”. Upon entry to the Traditions Gallery in the Army Museum, the eye of the visitor is immediately drawn to a trophy of arms on the facing wall. Eleven bayonets in a fan shape, provide a corona above a black swan and the motto Vigilans. The black swan (Cygnus atratus) has long been emblematic of Western Australia and the motto Vigilans (Vigilant) has been used on WA military badges since at least 1895.
Details
Details
Typically only a small portion of a museum collection is exhibited at any one time. This is due not only to practical consideration of display space but a range of professional considerations designed to protect and preserve the artefact. This series highlights objects and stories you may have overlooked in the galleries or collection items awaiting the opportunity to be viewed and share their story.
Australian Army Museum of Western Australia
Australian Army Museum of Western Australia
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