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A group of Staffordshire ceramic figure groups and portraits, 19th century, to include an untitled figure of either William Wallace or Robert Bruce, standing in full Scottish uniform with plaid over both shoulders and sword in right hand atop a naturalistically painted base, approx. 40cm high; a pair of Scottish Highland huntsman on horseback in full dress, one on horse facing right with hands resting on his right leg, the other on horse facing left with one hand resting on his left leg and the other resting on the horse's rump, each approx. 38cm high; a figure of a Scottish musician, standing in full Highland dress and holding pipes, approx. 37cm high; a figure of Will Watch, standing beside two barrels, leaning to his left and holding a pistol in his right hand and blunderbuss in his left, raised letters WILL WATCH to base, approx. 39cm high; a figure of Admiral Sir Charles Napier, standing next to a cannon with shells, in uniform with hat in his right hand, a cloak in his left, raised letters GENERAL NAPIER to base, approx. 26.5cm high; a figural spill vase, depicting a couple embracing under a brocade, her with a musical instrument, while another male hides behind the brocade with raised knife, raised letters to the base THE RIVAL, approx. 33cm high; a figure group of a mother and child on horseback, the horse facing left with rocky brocade between its legs, raised letters TRAVELLERS to base, approx. 25cm high; a pearlware figure of Elijah, seated on a rocky outcrop with brocade, his head raised, his left arm raised and right arm resting on his right leg, a bird perched nearby, the base with plaque incised ELIJAH, approx. 33cm high (AF) (9)   

A 19TH CENTURY LARGE MEISSEN NAUTILUS FIGURE OF VENUS depicted in a shell riding the waves with accompanying mermaids and cherub figure to the front riding a dolphin, set with shells on a naturalistic base23cm high 28cm across 20cm deep In good conditiion apart from a small piece of tail missing, another tail which has been reglued and a small chip. No over painting or restoration. See images uploaded

A PAIR OF MID/LATE 19TH CENTURY MEISSEN FIGURAL DOUBLE SHELL TABLE BASKETS modelled as a seated young lady and gentleman on scrolled earthy bases, the bowl interiors with painted floral panels and insects - Blue crossed swords mark24cm wide 17cm high the male figure has losses to his fingers and spoon to his right hand, also minor chips around the edges of the shells and his front foot, his right foot is missing. the female figure has lost the chickens head, also small chips around the shell edges.

AN IMPRESSIVE LARGE 20TH CENTURY ITALIAN SOLID SILVER ELECTRIC WINE FOUNTAIN CENTERPIECE CIRCA 1950 modelled as four dished rippling clam shells joined by scrolling leafage decoration embellished with crabs, octopus and conch shells around four protruding stylised dolphin head fonts and centred by a raised dished tier with double dolphin finial - hallmarked 925, 1823, MI for Milan, total weight 7450g.48cm wide 42.5cm deep 32cm highThe centrepiece will need a clean otherwise in very good undamaged condition with no dents, splits or restoration.

A basket of decorative shellsQty: 1In as found condition.

A pair of early Victorian mahogany shell back hall chairs, the shells raised on sea scrolled supports flanking a central armorial cartouche of a rampant wolf, the seat raised on sabre legs39cm wide x 85cm highQty: 2A small crack to the top of the back of one. Minor denting to the sea scrolling, and a small chip out of one side. Wear to the seats commensurate with age and use. Some minor staining. A chip to the back leg and evidence of repair on the same leg. Further evidence of repair to the back legs of one and some missing veneer.

An assortment of collectables, to include cribbage board, shells, scent bottles and miniature oil lamp etc.

Box of various sea shells

Collection of WWI trench art shells

A group of three Queen Elizabeth II silver spirit labels, moulded with shells and scrolls, marked Port, Brandy and Sherry, marks for Birmingham 1982 & 1985, maker Lawrence R Watson & Co, 35grams gross.

Collection of assorted fossilised shells including Bivalvia and others, a collection of assorted fossils including: ammonites, various shells, a section possibly of an Orthoceras in matrix and other examples and a collection of assorted specimen fragments of quartz and other stone including Spoutcrag White Sea Green slate, a polished ammonite and other items and a copy of the Spotters Guide to Rocks and Minerals 

Collection of assorted fossilised shells including Bivalvia and others and a collection of assorted fossilised ammonites and associated fragments, probably Liparoceras (4  boxes)

Collection of assorted fossilised ammonites and associated fragments, probably Liparoceras, assorted fossilised shells including: Gryphaea, devil's toenails and associated fragments and a large collection of fossilised shells in sizes, including scallops, clams and others (3 boxes)

A Pair of Brass Trench Art Vases with hammered floral decoration fashioned from WWI shells

A collection of natural sea shells & fossils

The Dave Degens1959 Nor-BSA 350cc Racing MotorcycleRegistration no. WSL 988Frame no. P48Engine no. DB.32.GS.1679.•Built for Dave Degens in 2019•Road licensed, race-specification•3.6 miles recordedNorton's ubiquitous Featherbed frame has long been the special-builder's friend, proving versatile enough to accommodate power units of all kinds ranging from the humble British single up to relatively modern Japanese fours and even the occasional car engine. The Triumph-engined Triton is by far the most common of these hybrids, followed by the BSA-engined Nor-BSA, usually using a twin-cylinder engine.This unique hybrid was built for Dave Degens' personal use in 2019 and is owned by and registered to him. It incorporates a replica Manx lightweight frame, constructed of Accles & Pollock T45 tubing instead of the original Reynolds 531, and is powered by a tuned 350cc BSA Gold Star DB32 engine dating from circa 1959. Harking back to the austere decades of the immediately post-WW2 period, this machine was built for its owner to ride to the track, remove the lights and number plate, race and ride home. Specification highlights include the following: Original Manx twin-leading-shoe magnesium front brake in converted Triumph conical hub Belt primary driveDresda competition swinging arm Balanced crankshaftNew main bearingsNew big-end shells Lightweight valves and springs Lucas M01 mag-dyno Amal Concentric carburettorHagen shock absorbers Alloy fuel and oil tanksFront brake air scoop18' alloy wheel rims (Morad front; XS Performance rear) shod with modern tyresAt time of cataloguing, it is believed only 3.6 miles had been covered since the machine was built. Following a period of inactivity, this motorcycle will require re-commissioning and thus is sold strictly as viewed. Accompanying paperwork includes a (copy) old V5; specification sheets and DVLA SORN. Key not required.Footnotes:All lots are sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com

Edward Weston was an influential American photographer who is widely recognized as one of the pioneers of modern photography. He was born on March 24, 1886, in Highland Park, Illinois, and passed away on January 1, 1958, in Carmel, California. Weston's career spanned several decades, during which he produced a vast body of work that encompassed various genres, including landscapes, still lifes, nudes, and portraits. He was known for his meticulous attention to detail, precise composition, and ability to capture the essence and beauty of everyday objects. One of Weston's most significant contributions to photography was his exploration of form, texture, and tone through close-up studies of natural objects and landscapes. He often used large-format cameras and emphasized sharpness and clarity in his images. Weston's photographs of vegetables, shells, rocks, and other ordinary subjects transformed them into elegant and abstract compositions. Weston was a founding member of the influential photography group known as Group f/64, which advocated for the use of sharp focus and precise detail in photography. He exhibited his work extensively, and his photographs received widespread recognition and acclaim. Weston's contributions helped establish photography as a legitimate art form and influenced generations of photographers. Today, Edward Weston is regarded as one of the most important figures in the history of photography. His legacy continues to inspire photographers worldwide, and his work can be found in major museums and collections around the world. Measures 7.75 x 9.28Printed circa 1950sVerso is blank.Mounted to archival quality paper.

Edward Weston was an influential American photographer who is widely recognized as one of the pioneers of modern photography. He was born on March 24, 1886, in Highland Park, Illinois, and passed away on January 1, 1958, in Carmel, California. Weston's career spanned several decades, during which he produced a vast body of work that encompassed various genres, including landscapes, still lifes, nudes, and portraits. He was known for his meticulous attention to detail, precise composition, and ability to capture the essence and beauty of everyday objects. One of Weston's most significant contributions to photography was his exploration of form, texture, and tone through close-up studies of natural objects and landscapes. He often used large-format cameras and emphasized sharpness and clarity in his images. Weston's photographs of vegetables, shells, rocks, and other ordinary subjects transformed them into elegant and abstract compositions. Weston was a founding member of the influential photography group known as Group f/64, which advocated for the use of sharp focus and precise detail in photography. He exhibited his work extensively, and his photographs received widespread recognition and acclaim. Weston's contributions helped establish photography as a legitimate art form and influenced generations of photographers. Today, Edward Weston is regarded as one of the most important figures in the history of photography. His legacy continues to inspire photographers worldwide, and his work can be found in major museums and collections around the world. Measures 9.5 x 7.75 Printed circa 1950sVerso is blank.Mounted to archival quality paper.

Edward Weston was an influential American photographer who is widely recognized as one of the pioneers of modern photography. He was born on March 24, 1886, in Highland Park, Illinois, and passed away on January 1, 1958, in Carmel, California. Weston's career spanned several decades, during which he produced a vast body of work that encompassed various genres, including landscapes, still lifes, nudes, and portraits. He was known for his meticulous attention to detail, precise composition, and ability to capture the essence and beauty of everyday objects. One of Weston's most significant contributions to photography was his exploration of form, texture, and tone through close-up studies of natural objects and landscapes. He often used large-format cameras and emphasized sharpness and clarity in his images. Weston's photographs of vegetables, shells, rocks, and other ordinary subjects transformed them into elegant and abstract compositions. Weston was a founding member of the influential photography group known as Group f/64, which advocated for the use of sharp focus and precise detail in photography. He exhibited his work extensively, and his photographs received widespread recognition and acclaim. Weston's contributions helped establish photography as a legitimate art form and influenced generations of photographers. Today, Edward Weston is regarded as one of the most important figures in the history of photography. His legacy continues to inspire photographers worldwide, and his work can be found in major museums and collections around the world. Measures 7.75 x 9.5 Printed circa 1950sVerso is blank.Mounted to archival quality paper.

Edward Weston was an influential American photographer who is widely recognized as one of the pioneers of modern photography. He was born on March 24, 1886, in Highland Park, Illinois, and passed away on January 1, 1958, in Carmel, California. Weston's career spanned several decades, during which he produced a vast body of work that encompassed various genres, including landscapes, still lifes, nudes, and portraits. He was known for his meticulous attention to detail, precise composition, and ability to capture the essence and beauty of everyday objects. One of Weston's most significant contributions to photography was his exploration of form, texture, and tone through close-up studies of natural objects and landscapes. He often used large-format cameras and emphasized sharpness and clarity in his images. Weston's photographs of vegetables, shells, rocks, and other ordinary subjects transformed them into elegant and abstract compositions. Weston was a founding member of the influential photography group known as Group f/64, which advocated for the use of sharp focus and precise detail in photography. He exhibited his work extensively, and his photographs received widespread recognition and acclaim. Weston's contributions helped establish photography as a legitimate art form and influenced generations of photographers. Today, Edward Weston is regarded as one of the most important figures in the history of photography. His legacy continues to inspire photographers worldwide, and his work can be found in major museums and collections around the world. Measures 7.75 x 9.28Printed circa 1950sVerso is blank.Mounted to archival quality paper.

Edward Weston was an influential American photographer who is widely recognized as one of the pioneers of modern photography. He was born on March 24, 1886, in Highland Park, Illinois, and passed away on January 1, 1958, in Carmel, California. Weston's career spanned several decades, during which he produced a vast body of work that encompassed various genres, including landscapes, still lifes, nudes, and portraits. He was known for his meticulous attention to detail, precise composition, and ability to capture the essence and beauty of everyday objects. One of Weston's most significant contributions to photography was his exploration of form, texture, and tone through close-up studies of natural objects and landscapes. He often used large-format cameras and emphasized sharpness and clarity in his images. Weston's photographs of vegetables, shells, rocks, and other ordinary subjects transformed them into elegant and abstract compositions. Weston was a founding member of the influential photography group known as Group f/64, which advocated for the use of sharp focus and precise detail in photography. He exhibited his work extensively, and his photographs received widespread recognition and acclaim. Weston's contributions helped establish photography as a legitimate art form and influenced generations of photographers. Today, Edward Weston is regarded as one of the most important figures in the history of photography. His legacy continues to inspire photographers worldwide, and his work can be found in major museums and collections around the world. Measures 9.27 x 7.75 Printed circa 1950sVerso is blank.Mounted to archival quality paper.

Edward Weston was an influential American photographer who is widely recognized as one of the pioneers of modern photography. He was born on March 24, 1886, in Highland Park, Illinois, and passed away on January 1, 1958, in Carmel, California. Weston's career spanned several decades, during which he produced a vast body of work that encompassed various genres, including landscapes, still lifes, nudes, and portraits. He was known for his meticulous attention to detail, precise composition, and ability to capture the essence and beauty of everyday objects. One of Weston's most significant contributions to photography was his exploration of form, texture, and tone through close-up studies of natural objects and landscapes. He often used large-format cameras and emphasized sharpness and clarity in his images. Weston's photographs of vegetables, shells, rocks, and other ordinary subjects transformed them into elegant and abstract compositions. Weston was a founding member of the influential photography group known as Group f/64, which advocated for the use of sharp focus and precise detail in photography. He exhibited his work extensively, and his photographs received widespread recognition and acclaim. Weston's contributions helped establish photography as a legitimate art form and influenced generations of photographers. Today, Edward Weston is regarded as one of the most important figures in the history of photography. His legacy continues to inspire photographers worldwide, and his work can be found in major museums and collections around the world. Measures 9.5 x 7.75 Printed circa 1950sVerso is blank.Mounted to archival quality paper.

Edward Weston was an influential American photographer who is widely recognized as one of the pioneers of modern photography. He was born on March 24, 1886, in Highland Park, Illinois, and passed away on January 1, 1958, in Carmel, California. Weston's career spanned several decades, during which he produced a vast body of work that encompassed various genres, including landscapes, still lifes, nudes, and portraits. He was known for his meticulous attention to detail, precise composition, and ability to capture the essence and beauty of everyday objects. One of Weston's most significant contributions to photography was his exploration of form, texture, and tone through close-up studies of natural objects and landscapes. He often used large-format cameras and emphasized sharpness and clarity in his images. Weston's photographs of vegetables, shells, rocks, and other ordinary subjects transformed them into elegant and abstract compositions. Weston was a founding member of the influential photography group known as Group f/64, which advocated for the use of sharp focus and precise detail in photography. He exhibited his work extensively, and his photographs received widespread recognition and acclaim. Weston's contributions helped establish photography as a legitimate art form and influenced generations of photographers. Today, Edward Weston is regarded as one of the most important figures in the history of photography. His legacy continues to inspire photographers worldwide, and his work can be found in major museums and collections around the world. Measures 9.5 x 7.75 Printed circa 1950sVerso is blank.Mounted to archival quality paper.

Edward Weston was an influential American photographer who is widely recognized as one of the pioneers of modern photography. He was born on March 24, 1886, in Highland Park, Illinois, and passed away on January 1, 1958, in Carmel, California. Weston's career spanned several decades, during which he produced a vast body of work that encompassed various genres, including landscapes, still lifes, nudes, and portraits. He was known for his meticulous attention to detail, precise composition, and ability to capture the essence and beauty of everyday objects. One of Weston's most significant contributions to photography was his exploration of form, texture, and tone through close-up studies of natural objects and landscapes. He often used large-format cameras and emphasized sharpness and clarity in his images. Weston's photographs of vegetables, shells, rocks, and other ordinary subjects transformed them into elegant and abstract compositions. Weston was a founding member of the influential photography group known as Group f/64, which advocated for the use of sharp focus and precise detail in photography. He exhibited his work extensively, and his photographs received widespread recognition and acclaim. Weston's contributions helped establish photography as a legitimate art form and influenced generations of photographers. Today, Edward Weston is regarded as one of the most important figures in the history of photography. His legacy continues to inspire photographers worldwide, and his work can be found in major museums and collections around the world. Measures 9.5 x 7.76Printed circa 1950sVerso is blank.Mounted to archival quality paper.

Edward Weston was an influential American photographer who is widely recognized as one of the pioneers of modern photography. He was born on March 24, 1886, in Highland Park, Illinois, and passed away on January 1, 1958, in Carmel, California. Weston's career spanned several decades, during which he produced a vast body of work that encompassed various genres, including landscapes, still lifes, nudes, and portraits. He was known for his meticulous attention to detail, precise composition, and ability to capture the essence and beauty of everyday objects. One of Weston's most significant contributions to photography was his exploration of form, texture, and tone through close-up studies of natural objects and landscapes. He often used large-format cameras and emphasized sharpness and clarity in his images. Weston's photographs of vegetables, shells, rocks, and other ordinary subjects transformed them into elegant and abstract compositions. Weston was a founding member of the influential photography group known as Group f/64, which advocated for the use of sharp focus and precise detail in photography. He exhibited his work extensively, and his photographs received widespread recognition and acclaim. Weston's contributions helped establish photography as a legitimate art form and influenced generations of photographers. Today, Edward Weston is regarded as one of the most important figures in the history of photography. His legacy continues to inspire photographers worldwide, and his work can be found in major museums and collections around the world. Measures 7.75 x 9.5Printed circa 1950sVerso is blank.Mounted to archival quality paper.

A quantity of lighting componentsincluding Carbide/Acetylene type lamps and generators; headlamp shells, including a Lucas headlamp. Various states of condition and completeness. Prospective bidders must satisfy themselves as to the condition, completeness, correctness, compatibility and integrity of the components prior to bidding. Footnotes:All lots are sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.Lot to be sold without reserve.This lot is subject to the following lot symbols: ◊◊ £30 + VAT uplift and storage at £6 + VAT per lot per day.For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com

A quantity of sea shells in a blue and white jardiniere. The jardiniere 39 cm long.

A small quantity of various ceramics and two abalone shells.

Britain's 4.7" model Naval Gun, boxed with spare shells

Britain's Long Tom 155mm field gun, with sprung shell case and shells, together with a 25 pounder field gun, a push-along jet fighter wit ejecting pilot, and three Dinky armoured vehicles (6)

Two boxes of decorative items and metalwares, to include carved figures and stands, carvings, shells and brass items

A Parian Figure of an Arab Girl, circa 1870, wearing traditional dress carrying a ewer and a basket of shells on a circular base 45cm highThis lot has been imported from outside the United Kingdom under the Temporary Admission scheme. VAT will be charged at 5% on the hammer price and 20% on the buyer's premium. The lizard on the water jug has been restored (see images). Chip to the shell basket (see image). Figure is rather dirty. Further fault/restoration to the back of the head (as photographed). Copeland impressed mark to the base.

A Pair of Portuguese Silver Seven-Light Candleabra, by Topázio, Porto, 1938-1984, each in the rococo-style, the based cast and chased in high relief with foliage scrolls and shells on a textured ground, the baluster stems similarly decorated, the detachable branches with six arms and a central branch, each terminating in a foliage cast socket with wax-pan 57cm high, 171oz 6dwt, 5,328gr (2)This lot will be sold under the Auctioneers' Margin Scheme Marked on base and branches with maker's mark and 916 standard mark. The bases further stamped '925'. There is some overall surface scratching and wear, consistent with age and use. There is some bruising to the branches, some of which are out of alignment.

A Pair of Late 19th Century Bronze Six Branch Candleabra in the Manner of Henry Dasson, the central support issuing a flame with six scrolled acanthus decorated arm supports, the cast bases decorated with shells and acanthus leaves height 66cmProvenance: Galleria Camiciotti, Florence, ItalyThis lot has been imported from outside the United Kingdom under the Temporary Admission scheme. VAT will be charged at 5% on the hammer price and 20% on the buyer's premium.

Anita Harris Ammonities & shells teardrop vase. Gold signed to base, height 22cm

Natural History: a collection of fossils, shells and related. 

Natural History: a interesting collection of shells and fossils, to include ammonites.

A pair of African carved hardwood and metal mounted figures of gazelles - each with a further gazelle raised on it's back, with polychrome painted support incorporating cowrie shells, each height 104cm.

CONTINENTAL WALNUT WALL MIRROR, LATE 19TH CENTURY the bevelled plate set within a frame carved in low relief with scrolls, foliage and shells57cm x 80cm

A polynesian seed sower's basket, the cover with three applied shells.

A box of mixed vintage items to include a vintage clear plastic preserve pot with peach detail, an Arthur Rankin print, collectors spoons, vintage sea shells and a cocktail shaker.

VINTAGE SAILING VESSEL MADE FROM SHELLS

An Eastern Staff decorated with shells 6 inches long

Two tortoise shells

A Royal Worcester centre piece, decorated with a semi clad lady, the base decorated with shells, having registration mark to base  and stamped for the retailer Richard Briggs, Boston, width 16ins, height 8ins, restored, with hairline cracks

A George II gilt side table, in the manner of James Moore. With Baroque frieze moulded with shells on cabriole legs with pad feet.White marble top. Width 79cm height 73cm. See multiple images 43.3cm deep 72.2cm wide 71cm high (all without marble) The top is not original. The table is stable with tight joints

Gilliss,J.M.: U.S. Naval Astronomical Expedition to the Southern Hemisphere during the years 1849-52. Bd. 2 (v.4). Washington, Nicholson 1855. 4°. Mit 2 (1 gefalt.) Karten u. Plänen, 35 lithogr. Tafeln (tls. farb.; num. 8-42) sowie einigen Textholzstichen. IX S., 1 Bl., 300 S. Hldr. d. Zt. mit Rsch. (Tls. best. u. berieb.). Sabin 27419. Nissen, ZBI 1574. - Band 2: The Andes and Pampas, Minerals, Indian remains, Mammals, Birds, Reptiles, Fishes, Shells, Dried Plants etc. - Die Tafeln mit Vögeln, Fischen, Reptilien etc. - Etw. gebräunt, tls. etw. stockfleckig.

Full title: A rare Chinese blue and white 'Bleu de Hue' tea plate for the royal doctor in the Hue Palace, 御醫正記 seal mark, mid-19th C.Description:Dia.: 15 cm This type of small tea plate was only made by special order, in a very small number, for the office of the royal doctor within the Vietnamese Royal Palace of Hue, in the middle of the 19th C. The base bears a mark in zhuanshu script: 御醫正記, which translates to 'Made as commissioned by the royal doctor' or 'Ngá»± y chín ký'. Provenance: - The collection of Thomas Ulbrich, Studio Tho, Hanoi-Berlin. Ref.: Published in: DO SU KY KIEU THOI NGUYEN by Dr. Tran Duc Anh Son (2016), page 210: 'The turtle is the third of the tứ linh (four supernatural creatures) and symbol of longevity, energy and endurance. It is the first of all the creatures that have shells. The carapace on the back of the turtle symbolizes the heavens (the vaulted upper part) and the earth (the flat part below). The turtle appears in various art forms of the Nguyá»…n period, but its image is rarely seen on the porcelain of this period. In the collection of Thomas Ulbrich, there is a tea-saucer marked 御醫正記 (Made as commissioned by the Royal Doctor) in the form of zhuanshu script, with a painting depicting a fairy turtle offering the Luoshu (雒書: rolled letter) in a bookcase to King Wenwang with a poem in Han script.Condition:The absence of a condition report does not imply that a lot is in perfect condition.Condition reports are provided on request. They will be made available, together with additional images, on our website at www.rm-auctions.com. Condition reports are given as a service, we can not be held liable for errors in such a report. The full list of condition reports for this sale is available on the following URL: https://www.rm-auctions.com/en/condition-report/75Further questions are always welcome at info@rm-auctions.com

WW1 British Royal Artillery Officers Training Notes, fine selection of original hand written training note books with hand drawn illustrations of Artillery shells, drive bands, ranges of fire etc. Various conditions. Accompanied by a grouping of WW1 period postcards. (Grouping)

Boer War Spion Kop Relic, fine piece of heavy shell shrapnel fragment weighing approximately 1.75kg with British broad arrow stamp. Old paper label attached with inked ‘Picked up on Spion Kop by Dr Rowlands on the 6th day Jany 1901’ old museum collection number inked under this ‘No25’. Heavy and sharp. It is believed that this piece of shell shrapnel was from one of the Royal Navy guns brought up to support the British troops attacking Spion Kop on 24th January 1900 during the Boer War, sadly many of the naval shells fell on the Kop itself causing heavy casualties on the British troops.

A collection of fossils, sea shells, stones and medieval and later pottery shards, to include trilobites, one from Morocco, various sea urchins, and others Location:

A collection of WWI and WWII miniature medal bars to include a Royal Naval Reserve decoration and WWII medals to include a medal with oak leaf and others, WWII compass, WWI artillery shells and later trench ashtrayLocation:

A SILVER-INLAID BRONZE FIGURE OF A TORTOISE AND YOUNG, ATTRIBUTED TO SHISOU, LATE MING DYNASTYChina, 17th century. Well cast as a mother tortoise standing foursquare and lifting its head as its young clambers on her back. Both with their carapaces finely inlaid with silver wire, the mother's deeply incised as well, their faces neatly detailed. Provenance: From a private French collection in Bordeaux. Condition: Very good condition with minor wear and casting irregularities, few small nicks, light scratches, minor losses to inlays. Fine, naturally grown patina overall.Weight: 365.7 g Dimensions: Length 10.4 cm Little is known about the historical figure Shisou. The earliest reference in the Zhongguo meishujia renming cidian ('Dictionary of Chinese Artists') comes from the Luochuang xiaodu and is presumably from the same source as published in Zhongguo yishujia zhenglue ('Brief Introduction of Chinese Artists'). Shisou is listed there only as a late Ming dynasty monk without any further biographical information. A number of vessels and sculptures from the seventeenth to the nineteenth century bear his name, sometimes in combination with a hall name, Jinyu tang ('Hall of Prosperity'). Although the present piece is unsigned, the high quality of the casting and fine silver-wire inlays make an attribution to Shisou or a related workshop more than reasonable.The tortoise is one of the Four Fabulous Animals, the most prominent beasts of China. They govern the four points of the compass, with the Black Tortoise as the ruler of the north, symbolizing endurance, strength, and longevity. The tortoise and the tiger are the only real animals of the four, although the tortoise is sometimes depicted with supernatural features such as dragon ears, flaming tentacles, and a long hairy tail - such as the present lot - representing seaweed and the growth of plant parasites found on older tortoise shells that flow behind the tortoise as it swims. The Chinese Imperial Army carried flags with images of dragons and tortoises as symbols of unparalleled power and inaccessibility, as these animals fought with each other but both remained alive.Literature comparison: For an earlier inlaid bronze tortoise-form weight, dated 3rd-2nd century BC, see Christie's New York, The Sze Yuan Tang Archaic Bronzes from the Anthony Hardy Collection, 16 September 2010, lot 907. For an inlaid bronze tortoise-form weight dated Yuan to Ming dynasty, see Christie's Hong Kong, Important Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, 27 November 2013, lot 3584. A lacquer-gilt bronze model of a turtle, also dated to the 17th century, was sold in these rooms in Fine Chinese Art, Buddhism and Hinduism on 6 March 2021, lot 430.Auction result comparison: Type: Related Auction: Zacke, 16 October 2021, lot 346 Price: EUR 1,150 or approx. EUR 1,350 adjusted for inflation at the time of writing Description: A silver-inlaid bronze 'turtle' weight, attributed to Shisou, late Ming dynasty Expert remark: Compare the closely related manner of casting, silver wire inlay decoration, and size (10 cm). Note that this is a figure of the mother turtle only, not showing the young. 明末錯銀銅龜携子，或爲石叟中國，十七世紀。 一隻母龜呈四足著地立姿，抬頭；一隻小龜爬在她的背上。龜甲上精美錯銀線，面部細節生動，活靈活現。 來源：法國波爾多私人收藏。 品相：狀況極好，有輕微磨損和鑄造不規則，局部小刻痕，輕微劃痕，鑲嵌物有輕微損失。整體包漿細膩。 重量：365.7 克 尺寸：長10.4 厘米 文獻比較： 一件西元二至三世紀銅鑲嵌龜鎮，見紐約佳士得，「The Sze Yuan Tang Archaic Bronzes from the Anthony Hardy Collection」，2010年9月16日，lot 907。一件元至明代銅鑲嵌龜鎮，見香港佳士得，《Important Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art》，2013年11月27日，lot 3584。一件十七世紀漆金鎏金銅龜，售於Zacke，《Fine Chinese Art，Buddhism and Hinduism》，2021年3月6日，lot 430。 拍賣結果比較： 形制：相近 拍賣：Zacke，2021年10月16日，lot 346 價格：EUR 1,150（相當於今日EUR 1,350） 描述：明末錯銀銅龜鎮紙 專家評論：比較非常相近的鑄造風格，銀鑲嵌裝飾和尺寸(10 厘米)。請注意此龜鎮紙只有母龜，沒有小龜。

Three: Lieutenant O. Huddleston, Chinese Labour Corps, late West Yorkshire Regiment, who commanded dozens of Chinese labourers in the crucial work of returning the battlefields of the Western Front to a habitable and relatively safe environment, post-Armistice 1914-15 Star (11754 Pte. O. Huddleston. W. York: R.); British War and Victory Medals (2. Lieut. O. Huddleston.) extremely fine (3) £140-£180 --- Oswald Huddleston was born in Flamborough, Yorkshire, on 13 August 1891. He attested for the West Yorkshire Regiment at Harrogate on 31 August 1914, and served in the Mediterranean theatre from 7 September 1915 to 1 July 1916, and France from 2 July 1916 to 27 July 1917. Appointed to a commission with the 3rd Battalion, West Yorkshire Regiment in November 1917, his service was temporarily put on hold when he suffered a bayonet wound to the thumb whilst 'going through a hedge' on exercises at Romford. This necessitated an operation involving bone removal from the terminal phalanx on 7 February 1918. Recovered, he returned to France and was appointed to the 162nd Chinese Labour Corps on 11 April 1919.  Today, very little is published regarding the Chinese Labour Corps. The story of the largest and longest-serving non-European labour contingent in the war has largely been passed over, indeed the Chinese labourers have been referred to in the British press as 'the forgotten of the forgotten.' In total, 94,146 Chinese labourers served in the Corps as a non-combatant part of the British Army, engaged during hostilities in the building and repairing of docks, railways and airfields, the loading and unloading of supplies and munitions, vehicle repair, and - once the conflict was over - battlefield clearance. According to the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, they had a reputation 'for hard work, ingenuity and improvisation.'  Deployed in the important work of clearing live ordnance and exhuming bodies from battlefield burials and moving them to the new war cemeteries, the life of British Officers assigned to the Chinese Labour Corps of 1919 was challenging and almost as perilous as during the war. According to author Michael Summerskill in China of the Western Front, many of its officer cadre consisted of missionaries and sinologues. However, for the remainder, the language barrier and lack of knowledge regarding Chinese customs proved a real hindrance to the effectiveness of their units. Nearly 2,000 Chinese labourers died from the Spanish flu and accidents involving heavy machinery, booby-traps, poison gas shells and live grenades. Today, many of these brave men rest in the Chinese Cemetery at Noyelles-sur-Mer on the Somme, which bears a poignant inscription at its entrance chosen by Shi Zhaoji, Chinese Ambassador to Great Britain: 'These are my friends and colleagues whose merits are incomparable.' Sold with an attractive Birmingham 1920 hallmarked silver and yellow metal shield watch-fob, privately engraved to reverse ‘H.P.C.C.C. O. Huddleston. 1920.’

Five: Sergeant J. Robinson, East Surrey Regiment, who was killed in the attack on Ale Alley and Beer Trench near Ginchy on 3 September 1916 British War and Victory Medals (192 Sjt. J. Robinson. E. Surr. R.), with flattened named card box of issue and transmission slip, in damaged outer envelope addressed to, ‘Mrs. J. Robinson, 55 White Hart Line, Barnes, SW’; Territorial Force War Medal 1914-19 (192. Sjt. J. Robinson. E. Surr. R.); with flattened named card box of issue and transmission slip in damaged outer envelope similarly addressed; Territorial Force Efficiency Medal, G.V.R. (192 Sjt. J. Robinson. 5/E. Surr: Regt.); Memorial Plaque (Jacob Robinson) with Buckingham Palace enclosure, nearly extremely fine (5) £600-£800 --- Jacob Robinson was born in 1879 at Putney, Surrey and resided at Tottenham, Middlesex prior to attesting for the East Surrey Regiment at Wimbledon, Surrey. He served during the Great War ranked Sergeant in the 5th Battalion (Territorial Force) in India for one year and seven months, after which he was posted to the 9th (Service) Battalion in France where he was killed on 3 September 1916, only a month after his arrival, during the attack on Ale Alley and Beer Trench near Ginchy: ‘On 3 September, 7th Division, on the right of 24th Division was to attack Ginchy, half a mile south-east of 9/East Surrey. Germans in Ale Alley and Hop Alley could enfilade units advancing on Ginchy. The battalion was ordered to assist by attacking, at noon, Ale Alley from the north-west, whilst a bombing party from the brigade on the right would attack from the south. The battalion was also to capture Beer Trench, which was then lightly held. However, the neighbouring brigade declared a change of plan, so that their bombers would attack Hop Alley instead. Captain Ingrams and Second Lieutenant Tetley led around forty men attacking Ale alley at noon, with a second attack 40 minutes later. Unfortunately, the attack by the brigade on the right did not progress and the Surrey men failed to break into the two Alleys. Captain Ingrams was killed and Lieutenant-Colonel de la Fontaine was very severely wounded leading an attack. An officer and three men crawled forward to a shell hole and sniped at Germans, who they reported to be holding Ale and hop Alleys in strength. Part of Beer Trench was, however, seized and thirty Germans advancing towards it were badly hit by Lewis gun fire. The war diary complained of the support given to the battalion’s attack. ‘Our own artillery did not assist us very much. Our heavy guns were throwing shells into our trench instead of Ale Alley. Our stokes guns failed to fire anywhere near the enemy trench and the T.M. firing smoke bombs stopped firing much too soon.’ (The Journey’s End Battalion: The 9th East Surrey in the Great War by Michael Lucas refers). Sergeant Robinson’s T.F.E.M. was issued posthumously under Army Order 143 of 1920. He has no known grave and is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial, France.

A fine and rare Second War Landing Craft Gun C.G.M. group of six awarded to Able Seaman T. H. R. Hills, Royal Navy, who took over as the coxswain of L.C.G.12 in Operation “FERDY” the fiercely opposed landings on the Italian Coast at Vibo Valentia; when an enemy shell burst just above the bridge leaving him the only person alive on the bridge, he took control and steered the craft through bursting shells and ammunition out of range of the enemy’s guns and brought her to safety Conspicuous Gallantry Medal, G.VI.R. (A.B. T. H. R. Hills. C/JX. 373402); 1939-45 Star; Atlantic Star; Africa Star; Italy Star; War Medal 1939-45, these last five privately engraved ‘A.B. T. H. R. Hills C.G.M. C/JX. 373402’, nearly extremely fine (6) £10,000-£14,000 --- C.G.M. London Gazette 25 January 1944: ‘For gallantry, leadership and undaunted devotion to duty under heavy and continuous fire from the enemy during landings on the Italian mainland.’ Conspicuous Gallantry Medal. ‘Able Seaman Thomas Henry Richard Hills, C/JX.372402 Able Seaman Hills was serving in a Landing Craft which was heavily damaged by a shell which burst just over the bridge. All the officers were killed or badly wounded and he was the only man left alive on the bridge. With complete coolness he took control and steered the craft through bursting shells and ammunition out of range of the enemy’s guns and brought her to safety.’ The original recommendation for this award in Admiralty Honours and Awards file H&A 1257/43 is in the National Archives under reference ADM1/14593 - Operations “Baytown” and “Ferdy” awards to personnel for services in support of the invasion of Sicily (sic). It reads: ‘L.C.G.12 - Operation “BAYTOWN” L.C.G.12 at “Ferdy”. This rating was the only person left alive on the bridge of L.C.G.12 at “Ferdy”. He took charge and brought L.C.G.12 out of range of the enemy’s guns.’ Fleet Honours Committee, Commodore Parker, 31st October, 1943, noted: ‘Concur. Propose Conspicuous Gallantry Medal. An outstanding act of gallantry and devotion to duty.’ Commander-in-Chief, Mediterranean, Admiral A. B. Cunningham, 2nd November, 1943, also noted: ‘Fully concur with the recommendation of the H & A Committee.’ Able Seaman Thomas Henry Richard Hills received his award of the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal at an Investiture on 19 November 1946. Operations “Baytown” and “Ferdy” Vibo Valentia is high up the ‘foot’ of Italy, midway between Reggio Calabria and Cosenza. Two landing attacks were planned by the Allies in September 1943, first across the Straits of Messina in operation “Baytown”, the first landing on the Italian mainland, and then further up the coast in operation “Ferdy” at Vibo Valentia. These were planned to disrupt enemy activities and to hasten their retreat north. Operation “Ferdy” was originally scheduled to take place on 6 September 1943. The object was to land 231 Brigade at Gioja, some miles behind enemy lines. This would help speed up the advance of XIII Corps, interfere with the enemy’s programme of withdrawal and road demolition, and, in the words of Flag Officer Sicily, ‘put some Germans in the bag’. Operation “Ferdy” was put into action on Tuesday 7 September, when the assembled force proceeded at 1830, to sail so as to arrive at Vibo Valentia Marina at 0530 on D-Day, 8 September. Paul Lund and Harry Ludlum take up the story in their War of the Landing Craft in the aptly named chapter The Guns of Vibo Valentia: ‘It had been thought that the landing at Vibo Valentia would be well behind the enemy’s lines and would only meet with slight opposition. But [...] the van of the German withdrawal happened to be passing when the landing occurred and this accounted for the large number of guns and machine guns brought to bear… And then it came, with a sound so full of bitter, impersonal hatred… the LCT’s ran the gauntlet of shell-fire into the harbour. The air was full of the sharp crack of the guns and the almost instantaneous explosion of the shells, which gave no preliminary whistle, for these were high velocity German 88-millimetre guns. We continued to stand, silent, clustered together in the tank space, watching the approach of several more landing craft, one of which carried a cargo of ammunition. As she now waddled towards the shore shells began to fall on either side of her. “Christ” said a low voice, “she only needs to get the next lot in that ammo, and there’ll be fuck-all left.” “There’ll be fuck all left of any of us, mate, if that lot goes up,” added another. But as we awaited what seemed like the inevitable fate of that LCT, there suddenly broke out to seaward the sound of gunfire followed by bursts of Oerlikon and pom-pom fire, which immediately drew the attention of the German gunners and dramatically eased the situation for the LCTs… It transpired that an LCG and an LCF had closed the shore and begun to engage the enemy defences. It was twelve minutes past six when LCG 12 opened fire with her two four-point-sevens at the battery of mobile German 88s, while LCF 4 sprayed the woods above the town where machine-gun nests were giving trouble. The effect of this intervention was instantaneous for the German gunners at once turned their attention on the LCG with her greater fire power and began to score hits. But LCG 12 stood her ground and continued to fire and so give the landing craft a chance to make good their escape from the harbour. Later[…] looking through their binoculars where LCG 12 had ceased firing. “She’s under way and she’s badly damaged” Snagge said. The three of us watched in silence as the LCG slowly headed away from the shore. As we made our way down the Italian coast with the warmth of the sun on our backs, each of us knew how much we owed to LCG 12. Months later, bit by bit, we heard the full story of Operation Ferdy and the part that LCG 12 and the LSTs and support craft had played. For 38 minutes LCG 12 had engaged the enemy shore batteries and during that time she was hit several times. Then, at 6:50 a.m. after most of the LSTs had left the beach, a shell exploded above the bridge killing all the craft’s officers and many of the crew. It was at that moment, when conditions aboard the gun craft had reached a critical state, with no one in control, with both her guns out of action and still under heavy fire, that Ordinary Seaman T. H. Hills with great presence of mind and under considerable difficulty took the craft out to sea and to safety. His coolness saved the LCG and the lives of the rest of her company. And the distraction that LCG 12 had provided during those 38 minutes had allowed nearly all the 16 LCTs to escape – only one being hit. But the operation was successful in fulfilling its main object for it greatly increased the speed of the enemy withdrawal and hardly a bridge was demolished on the long road to Sapri.’ Sold with copied research including Admiralty recommendation and extracts from various publications.

A Second War 1940 ‘Southampton Blitz’ B.E.M. awarded to Crane Driver F. C. Clouder, who was employed by Southern Railway at the Southampton Docks, and was originally recommended for the George Medal for his gallantry in saving the life of a Anti-Aircraft gun crew member during a luftwaffe raid on the docks, 14 August 1940 British Empire Medal, (Civil) G.VI.R., 1st issue (Frederick Charles Clouder) very fine £400-£500 --- B.E.M. London Gazette 24 January 1941, Frederick Charles Clouder, Crane Driver, Southern Railway, Southampton Docks: ‘Just after bombs had been dropped in Southampton, Clouder volunteered to assist in removing a wounded soldier from the roof of the Cold Store. This was burning fiercely and A.A. shells standing there were exploding from the heat on the roof. He ran to a crane and guided a rope sling looped on to the crane hood which was placed on the Cold Store roof. The solider was placed in the sling and Clouder lowered him to the ground. As the raid was still in progress Clouder showed great presence of mind and courage in carrying out this operation in spite of flames and smoke as well as exploding A.A. shells.’ The original recommendation, for a George Medal, states: ‘At about 4.30pm on 15th August, 1940, just after bombs had been dropped in Southampton Docks, Clouder volunteered to assist in removing a wounded soldier (member of an A.A. Gun Crew) from the roof of the Cold Store, which was burning fiercely and A.A. shells were exploding from the heat on the roof. He ran to a crane on No. 40 Berth and an employee of Messrs. Joe Rose and Company, Stevedores, - W. W. Fisher - sat in a rope sling, looped on to the crane hook and was placed on the Cold Store roof. The soldier was apparently unconscious so Fisher placed the sling under the man’s arms and Clouder lowered him to the ground. The fire, by this time, was rapidly spreading towards Fisher [who was awarded the G.M. for his actions that day] - who was standing on the roof edge - and Clouder did not wait for the sling to be released from the wounded soldier, but raised the crane jib to enable Fisher to grasp the crane hook and he was lowered to the ground in this manner. The Docks and Marine Manager stated in his report, that in view of the fact that the raid was still in operation and flames and smoke as well as exploding A.A. shells had to be contended with, both these men showed great presence of mind and courage. In a letter received subsequently by Clouder, from Lt. Col. Commanding 24th Light A.A. Regiment, that gentleman states “I express sincere thanks for your courageous action in assisting in the rescue of an injured member of a gun’s crew at the “Cold Storage” building on August 15th, 1940. By voluntarily driving the crane, while the situation remained distinctly dangerous, you made possible the rescue of the injured man from probable death by gas or burning.” Frederick Charles Clouder was born in Lymington, Hampshire. He resided on Aldermoor Road, Southampton and was employed as a Crane Driver Southern Railways at Southampton Docks in the 1940s. In later life he resided at Foundry Lane, Millbrook and died in December 1968. Sold with copied research, including a photographic image of recipient.

‘I appear to have the happy knack of walking straight into trouble and then squirming out again.’ Letter from the recipient to his mother, three days after his Albert Medal winning exploits. A fine and extremely well-documented Albert Medal for Sea group of four awarded to Lieutenant-Commander D. Wainwright, Royal Navy, for his great gallantry and complete disregard of his own personal safety whilst attempting to save the life of a wounded stoker trapped in a stokehold aboard the rapidly sinking H.M.S. Penarth, which had struck a mine during a snowstorm in the North Sea on 4 February 1919. After his ship sank, he endured over 40 hours on a Carley float, in a winter sea, exposed and without food or water until finally rescued. Previously, Wainwright had survived the sinking of H.M.S. Nomad at the Battle of Jutland on 31 May 1916, being rescued from the North Sea, recording for posterity a graphic account of Nomad’s sinking at Jutland. Taken Prisoner of War, twice he attempted to escape, most notably on 24 July 1918, as one of the ‘Tunnellers of Holzminden’ - the greatest Prisoner of War break-out of the First World War. Wainwright’s later varied career saw him serve with the Auxiliary Division, Royal Irish Constabulary; with the British Gendarmerie in Palestine; and finally, as an Observer in Czechoslovakia following the Munich Conference. Returning to the Admiralty in 1939, he re-trained in Minesweepers before disappearing, drowned, off Portland on the eve of the Second World War Albert Medal, 2nd Class, for Gallantry in Saving Life at Sea, bronze and enamel, the reverse officially engraved ‘Presented by His Majesty to Lieut. David Wainwright, R.N., for Gallantry in attempting to save life on the occasion of the loss of H.M.S. “Penarth” on the 4th. Feb. 1919’; 1914-15 Star (S. Lt. D. Wainwright. R.N.); British War and Victory Medals (Lieut. D. Wainwright. R.N.) mounted as worn and housed in a Spink, London, leather case, contact marks and light pitting, especially to the reverse of the AM, therefore nearly very fine (lot) £8,000-£12,000 --- A.M. London Gazette 20 May 1919: ‘On the 4th of February 1919, H.M.S. Penarth struck a mine and immediately began to sink. Lieutenant David Wainwright, taking command of the situation, at once superintended the manning and lowering of the starboard gig, and later the launching of the Carley floats. Hearing there was a stoker injured in one of the stokeholds, he called for volunteers to show him the way, and at once made his way forward. There was by now a heavy list on the ship, and it was apparent she would not remain afloat much longer, the upper deck on the starboard side being already awash. Lieutenant Wainwright made his way below unaided, and while he was in the stokehold the ship struck a second mine abaft of him. The forepart was blown off and sank, and he was forced to wait till the stokehold had filled before he could float to the surface to escape. He displayed the greatest gallantry and disregard for his own personal safety in going below at a time when the ship was liable to sink at any moment.’ David Wainwright was born in Teddington, Middlesex, on 9 September 1894, and entered Osborne Naval Training College on the Isle of Wight as a Cadet in 1907, aged 13, before proceeding to Dartmouth in 1909, where he was in the same year as the future King Edward VIII. Appointed Midshipman, Wainwright’s first posting was aboard the Dreadnought class H.M.S. Colossus, and having been commissioned Acting Sub Lieutenant in June 1914, he transferred to H.M.S. Tigress in November of that year and was present at the Battle of Dogger Bank in January 1915. H.M.S. Nomad and the Battle of Jutland Wainwright was appointed Sub Lieutenant in H.M.S. Nomad in April 1916, and served in her at the Battle of Jutland, 31 May 1916, during which the Nomad was lost. Eight of her crew were killed, with 72 (including Wainwright) being rescued from the sea by German Torpedo boats and taken Prisoner of War. The recipient’s own account of the action states: ‘“Light cruisers report enemy in sight, Sir?” Thus, the bridge messenger at about 2.30pm on 31 May 1916. I opened my eyes with a start. After my morning watch and forenoon on deck I had hoped for an "Afternoon caulk." It was not to be. Up on deck one found the battle cruisers steaming on out beam. We, the Destroyers, were spread out in a protective fan ahead and abreast of them as a submarine screen. There seemed to be nothing dissimilar to our normal cruising appearance, and it was difficult to believe that the present stunt would vary in its finish from its predecessors; a long sweep to the eastward, a forenoon and afternoon spent in a forlorn dalliance in enemy waters and the ensuing return home with its inevitable zigzagging, submarine alarms and other reiterating monotonies. There seemed to be more of the crew on deck than was usual. Little knots of men stood talking and pointing ahead and away over the starboard bow. On the bridge the captain, one huge smile, breathed, “They're out?” and an air of cheerful expectancy prevailed. H.M.S. Lion decked herself out in bunting, and across the water we heard the call of “Action Stations” sounding in the battle cruisers. It was now about 2.45pm. We went to action stations ourselves, saw that everything was ready, and then as we could see no enemy yet, we went below in turns and had some tea. I remember thinking to myself: “I don't want to be killed, but if it's quick I shan't mind so much. I'm in a mortal funk of being wounded, but I needn't worry about being taken prisoner as that's not likely to happen.” My opinions were shortly to undergo a speedy change! Meanwhile we had received orders to take stations ahead of the battle cruisers and we were gradually drawing into position. From the bridge we could see, low down on the horizon off the port bow, masses of smoke, then masts and then funnels. The smoke was suddenly stabbed by vicious jabs of flame, later came the roll of the German guns and turning to our battle cruisers we saw them surrounded by colossal waterspouts that towered to the height of the foretops. A second later with a ripple of thunder our fleet replied. Think of the worst peal of thunder that you have ever heard, try to imagine it going on continuously and imagine that at the same time you are standing in the corridor of the Royal Scot with all the windows open, passing at full speed another Express going in the opposite direction on the next lot of rails. You will then have a faint conception of what it felt like on the bridge of a Destroyer in the van of the battle cruisers at Jutland. Tearing through the sea we waited our orders and watched the giants fighting. Now through glasses we could make out the head of the enemy a few light cruisers and a low huddle of Destroyers, our opposite numbers. Both fleets heading to the Southeast we were gradually converging, and away over there eight or ten miles away were men manning tubes and guns. Their tubes contained torpedoes for an attack (which we must foil) on our big ships, and the guns were fed with shells for us. Mathematically and in cold blood, at a distance which on land would take two or more hours to walk, we shortly proposed to pump highly explosive pieces of metal at each other. It seemed impossible to realise that Der Tag had at last come, and the state of tension while waiting for it to begin was the worst period that I passed through, because it gave imagination a chance to work. What happened when the shells struck a ship and that dull red glow appeared? Was everyone immediately asphyxiated, burnt or mangled? In another half hour would I be alive and unhurt, or would ...

A fine Great War 'Western Front' M.M. and Second and Third Award Bars group of four awarded to Private G. Fraser, Mechanical Transport, Army Service Corps, who was decorated with a trio of awards whilst attempting to supply the heavy artillery with shells Military Medal, G.V.R., with Second and Third Award Bars (M.2-050512 Pte. G. Fraser. M.T. A.S.C.); 1914-15 Star (M2-050512 Pte. G. Fraser. A.S.C.); British War and Victory Medals (M2-050512 Pte. G. Fraser. A.S.C.) minor official correction to prefix to number on MM, good very fine (4) £2,400-£2,800 --- 1 of 180 Military Medals and 2 Bars awarded during the Great War. M.M. London Gazette 11 October 1916. M.M. Second Award Bar London Gazette 7 October 1918. M.M. Third Award Bar London Gazette 21 October 1918. George Fraser was born at Templestones, Rafford, on 10 October 1887. A resident of Edinburgh, Fraser attested at Cupar on 21 February 1915 for one of the Mechanical Transport Companies of the Army Service Corps, his trade noted as motor driver. Application successful, he was posted to France on 9 March 1915 with the newly formed 272 Company, Mechanical Transport, Army Service Corps, attached to the ammunition column of the 12th Siege Battery, Royal Garrison Artillery. According to the recipient's Army Form Z.21., Fraser served as a 'Heavy I. C. Driver'. This most likely refers to a role as a heavy internal combustion driver. The London Gazette entries for each of his awards further note that he was thrice decorated whilst serving with the 12th Siege Battery, with whom Fraser appears to have served for almost the entire war. It was not uncommon at that time for those with specialist skills to remain with their units for the long term; the responsibility associated with transporting vast quantities of explosive and poison gas shells across a landscape raked by enemy artillery fire being entrusted to a handful of experienced men with long-standing appreciation of their part of the front. Sold with the recipient's original Certificate of Demobilisation, a letter from the dealer who purchased the group directly from the recipient's daughter, dated 15 August 1972, and extensive copied research.

Turton (William). Conchylia Insularum Britannicarum. The Shells of the British Islands, systematically arranged, 1st edition, London: M. A. Nattali, [1822], 20 hand-coloured engraved plates, some light spotting to text (partly unopened), library stamp erased from head of title, residue from bookplate removal, original cloth, paper label to spine (with small chips), corners bumped, 4toQTY: (1)