village-on-the-web ltd

Description

This memorial plaque was issued to the family of William Oliver Chant.

William served with 112th Company Machine Gun Corps (Infantry). He died on 28th April 1917.
We do not have any other paperwork or medals with this plaque.

The Memorial plaque, more properly plaquette, was issued after WW1 to the next of kin of all British and Empire service personnel killed as a result of the war.
The plaque is made of bronze.
The 12 cm (4.75") diameter circular design was chosen from over 800 submitted in a public competition.
The winning design was by Edward Carter Preston, a sculptor. He won £250.
The design is called "Pyramus". It features Britannia, holding a trident, next to a standing lion. Two dolphins are swimming round Britannia symbolising Britain's sea power. At the foot of the plaque there is another lion tearing apart the German eagle.
The edge bears the legend "He died for freedom and honour". There were approximately 600 plaques issued for women, and these do have the words altered to "She ...".

Each plaque is individually named, but does not bear their rank as there was to be no distinction between the sacrifice made by different individuals.

Please see photos as these form an important part of the description.


Selling price includes free UK postage. For other countries, please contact us for a quote.