WWI shaving mirror attributed to A.I.F. Lieutenant William James Knuckey, M.C.

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c. 1914

Overview

World War One era shaving mirror attributed to A.I.F. Lieutenant William James Knuckey, M.C.
It comprises a circular, double sided silvered metal surface, suitable for use as a mirror, with a sturdy metal stand attached to one side.The mirror is wrapped in some cream cotton fabric and then kept inside a circular leather pouch for protection.
There are some rust marks on the fabric and the outline of the metal stand is visible. The leather pouch has a press stud on one side. The strap which would have gone across the top and held the matching half of the press stud is missing.
There are no maker's marks.

Historical information

This mirror was a private purchase by A.I.F. serviceman William James Knuckey and used during his service in World War One.
William James Knuckey was born in Zeehan, Tasmania, on 20 April 1892. He was a 22 year old electrician when he enlisted as a Corporal with the 5th Battalion, C Company on 18 August 1914.
He embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board Transport A3 Orvieto on 21 October 1914. He was promoted to 2nd Lieutenant on 2 August 1916, and was later awarded the Military Cross for gallantry.
The citation in the 'Commonwealth Gazette' of 8 November 1917 read 'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion under an intense bombardment, when, regardless of danger, he constantly dug out men buried by shells, and in doing so was at last severely wounded.'
Due to the injuries received in this action, he returned to Australia on 10 September 1917.

Details

Registration number

cwa-org-119-RoW00989

Item type

Accessories

Collectibles

Domestic Objects

Mirror

Personal Effects

Themes

Social History

War and Conflict