Socket for a standard, 1850s

Description

This socket would be worn on a belt, fastened by the loop at the top. The end of the pike, on which the Regimental Colours were carried, fitted into the socket thus enabling the standard bearer to carry the heavy flag more easily. The regimental colours were, and are, an important symbol to a regiment, as they served traditionally not only as an identifying marker on the battlefield, but also as a trophy of past battles and a commemoration of the fallen, as honours were awarded and incorporated into the colours. It is still seen as a disgrace for the colours to be captured by the enemy.