Miniature hand tinted portrait of WWI Australian soldier in silver and gold frame
c. 1915 - 1919Hand tinted studio portrait of an Australian soldier housed in a silver and gold decorative oval frame.
The soldier is wearing his greatcoat and peaked cap with the Rising Sun badge visible on the band above the leather strap The unfirom is coloured light brown/khaki, while the background is a pale green.
The cover glass is convex and has a vertical crack running from top to bottom. There are floral decorations (two leaves with a central flower) made from 9 carat rose gold on each side and top and bottom.
The lower edge of the frame has three sets of letters impressed into it relating to the composition of the frame (9 ct gold and silver) and possibly the maker's mark.
The main frame is made from sterling silver which has some decorative engraving in the centre between each floral motif.
The reverse features a backing covered with deep red velvet which is held in position by four tiny metal pins.
There is a metal ring attached to the reverse for hanging.
The identity of the soldier in this beautiful portrait is unknown. The image may have been taken before the soldier departed from Australia, or in an overseas studio whilst on active service.
The pins have not been removed to see if there any details inside the frame for fear of damaging it.
Details
Details
On bottom edge of frame:
"9CT GOLD" "T.R.E"? "SILVER"
Other items from Recollections of War
- Sterling silver pendant or fob named to Lieutenant T. Walker, 1915
- 'Lest we forget ANZAC' tie or lapel pin
- Heart-shaped sweetheart brooch sold to raise funds for wounded soldiers on first Anzac Day - 13th October 1915
- Fundraising medallion sold to support Thames Red Cross Day - 1915
- World War One era double-sided photographic pendant locket - Lord Kitchener and General French
- Birmingham Battalion lapel badge converted to photo locket
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