Edged Weapons, Swords, Bayonets, Knives and Tools

Edged weapons have been an integral part of combat, ceremonial and ritual in armed conflict since time immemorial. The Australian Army Museum of Western Australia presents these objects in multiple contexts. They are central to the stories of individual soldiers in peace and war. They are sacred totems of knightly virtues, sacrifice and honour. They form a continuing part of military ritual and ceremonial. They denote hierarchy, command responsibility and status. They can be works of art and representation of craftmanship. Edged weapons cover the spectrum from brutal to utilitarian to the sublime.