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Lot 76
A GROUP OF SHELLS AND STARFISH SPECIMENS Comprising of fours starfish and shells from various species 22cm long Ownership Statement: This item is offered for sale without disclosing the identity of the owner. For a condition report or further images please email hello@hotlotz.com at least 48 hours prior to the closing date of the auction. This is an auction of preowned and antique items. Many items are of an age or nature which precludes their being in perfect condition and you should expect general wear and tear commensurate with age and use. We strongly advise you to examine items before you bid. Condition reports are provided as a goodwill gesture and are our general assessment of damage and restoration. Whilst care is taken in their drafting, they are for guidance only. We will not be held responsible for oversights concerning damage or restoration.
Lot 159
ZDENEK JANDA (CZECH, B.1953) - UNTITLED (SHELLS AND FRUIT) Mixed media on board, signed and with thumbprint lower left, in artist's bespoke frame Notes: Zdeněk Janda, born in 1953 in Czechoslovakia, is a renowned Czech painter and graphic artist. He studied under Vlastimil Květenský and Zdeněk Sýkora, developing a unique style combining fantastic realism with traditional medieval painting techniques. Janda's works have been displayed internationally, including in Prague, Munich, Taipei, and Paris, with a notable exhibition at the Grand Palais in 2004. His art is known for intricate compositions and self-crafted frames. A work by Janda was gifted to French President Emmanuel Macron by Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis in 2018. 50x 60cm; 85 x 95cm including frame Provenance: Dimensions Gallery Taipei, Taiwan Ownership Statement: This item is offered for sale without disclosing the identity of the owner. For a condition report or further images please email hello@hotlotz.com at least 48 hours prior to the closing date of the auction. This is an auction of preowned and antique items. Many items are of an age or nature which precludes their being in perfect condition and you should expect general wear and tear commensurate with age and use. We strongly advise you to examine items before you bid. Condition reports are provided as a goodwill gesture and are our general assessment of damage and restoration. Whilst care is taken in their drafting, they are for guidance only. We will not be held responsible for oversights concerning damage or restoration.
Lot 1278
18th century design oak lambing chair, flower head and foliate carved cresting inscribed '1715' over panelled back carved with scrolling leafy branches, enclosed by shaped wingbacks over arms and panelled sides, the side panels carved with shells and scrolled leafage, upholstered seat over single drawer with matching carved decoration, on stile supports Dimensions: Height: 124cm Length/Width: 66cm Depth/Diameter: 58cm
Lot 1233
Late 19th to early 20th century gilt wood and gesso chaise longue, the shaped and moulded frame decorated with shell pediment and acanthus leaf motifs, upholstered in light pink striped fabric, serpentine seat on cabriole feet decorated with flower heads and shells Dimensions: Height: 92cm Length/Width: 156cm Depth/Diameter: 70cmCondition Report:Some losses to the gesso. General signs of age and use: scratching, scuffs, dents etc.
Lot 1261
Late 19th to early 20th century giltwood and gesso console table with marble top, shaped white marble top, the base with pierced front decorated with shells and trailing leafy branches with flower heads, on cabriole supports with shell decorated knees, scrolled feet with acanthus leaf terminals Dimensions: Height: 88cm Length/Width: 85cm Depth/Diameter: 40cm
Lot 2129
An Edward VII Silver-Gilt Caster, by Elkington and Co., Birmingham, 1905 in the Paul de Lamerie rococo style, baluster and cast with foliage scrolls and shells21cm high, 16oz 3dwt, 502grProvenance: The Lion Collection.The present silver-gilt caster is inspired by the casters which form part of a centrpiece made by Paul de Lamerie in 1734 for Count Brobinsky. The original is now in the collection of the State Historical Museum, Moscow and an Elkington electrotype copy is in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum, London.Fully marked near rim and on cover bezel. The marks are generally clear. There is some overall surface scratching and wear, consistent with age and use. The wear is noticeable as a softening to the gilding.
Lot 33
A collection of five handcrafted vessels made entirely from coconut shells, showcasing traditional craftsmanship and natural textures. This set includes a variety of forms such as a handled mug, a decorative jug with incised geometric patterns, and intricately wrapped containers with woven fiber accents. Each piece highlights the organic beauty of coconut shell material with unique designs and earthy tones. The largest piece measures 8.5"H. Ideal for decorative use or for collectors of natural material crafts.Issued: 20th century Dimensions: See DescriptionCondition: Age related wear.
Lot 98
Fleur Yearsley To Hold the World in a Lava Lamp, 2024 Soft pastel, graphite, and ink on paper Signed on Verso 10 x 15cm (3¾ x 5¾ in.) About Fleur Yearsley is a visual artist based in Manchester, UK. Her work explores themes of memory, humour, gender, and unfolding narratives, often drawing on pop culture to create a relatable connection with the viewer. Offering a fresh, immersive perspective, Yearsley reclaims the tradition of 'the gaze', which has historically objectified women in the Western canon of art, shifting the power dynamic. She engages viewers, inviting them into her approachable paintings to reflect on how they perceive the subjects and their own role in the act of looking. Her process is characterised by immediacy and openness, balanced with playful refinement and a colourful sensibility. Through a diverse range of gestural actions, hard edges, and flat colours, she infuses her work with energy and a sense of vibration. Yearsley's paintings resonate like a generational anthem, addressing concepts of high and low brow culture, everyday life, urban environments and social norms. Education 2015-2017 MFA in Fine Art, Slade School of Fine Art, UCL, London, UK 2010-2013 BA (Hons) Fine Art, Manchester School of Art, MMU, Manchester, UK Solo Exhibitions 2023 Breathing is Free, The Edge Gallery, UK 2022 ONE MORE TUNE, The Manchester Contemporary, UK Coming Up, Ruslan Faraev Institute of Art, UK 2021 When The Lights Go Up (Curated by Julia Lucero), Sapling Gallery, UK Group Exhibitions 2025 A Day In The Life, School Gallery, UK 2024 Input/Output, Paradise Works, UK Shifting Sands, Saan1, UK Manchester Open, HOME, UK 2023 In The Membrane, Paradise Works, UK OPEN, Bury Art Museum & Sculpture Centre, UK NSFW, Smolensky Gallery, UK Unity, Smolensky Gallery, UK 2022 Things Fall Apart, Paradise Works, UK Bankley Open, Bankley Gallery, UK 2021 SLAP-BANG, Warrington Contemporary Arts Festival (Curated by Short Supply), Castlefield Gallery's New Art Space, UK Anything Goes, Aatma, UK 2020 John Moores Painting Prize, Walker Art Gallery, UK 2019 GIFC & Velvet Ropes, House of Vans, UK Bow Open Show, Nunnery Gallery, UK Isolation Association, Art In The Docks, UK 2018 Desires, GNYP Gallery, Germany Original London Print Fair, Royal Academy of Arts, UK 2017 Paper Cuts, Tripp Gallery, UK BUFF, Slade Summer Residency, UK Slade Graduate Degree Show, Slade School of Fine Art, UK 2015 The Windshow Drawing, Camden People's Theatre, UK 2014 OBSESSION: Love, Ritual, Collection, Embassy Tea Gallery, UK 2013 We Are All Explorers, Manchester School of Art, UK Awards 2024 Shortlisted 'Macfarlanes Art Prize' Shortlisted 'Clyde & Co Art Prize' 2022 Shortlisted 'BEEP Painting Prize' 2021 Winner 'Repaint History Prize for Womxn Artists' 2016 Shortlisted 'Blooom Award, by Warsteiner' 2016 Shortlisted 'Taking Shape Prize' 2014 Shortlisted 'Young Masters Art Prize' 2014 Shortlisted 'The Signature Art Prize' Gallery Representation Seventeen (London, UK) Public Collections V&A Museum Collection (London, UK) Statement about AOAP Submitted Artwork 'Queen' is a hopeful bid for equality in light of International Women's Day, as Queen Conch shells are seen as lucky. They are a motif that I return to regularly in my work as they are also evocative of the female form. You must not reproduce, duplicate, copy, sell, resell or exploit any works. In doing so, you endanger our relationships with artists and directly jeopardise the charitable work we do.
Lot 326
Kamila Sipika The Garden, 2025 Aquarelle on paper Signed on Verso 10 x 15cm (3¾ x 5¾ in.) About Visual artist currently working in The Netherlands and Poland. Nature is rooted at the core of Kamila's creative inspiration as she works with subjects such as ephemerality, decay, tranquillity, folk traditions and timeless plants' symbolism. Her materials of choice are linens and cotton that serve perfectly the natural pigments, oil paints and dying the textiles. Her work encourages viewers to re-consider the relationship between nature and the painting medium. Her practice is founded on the curiosity in the surroundings. She collects a range of objects, primarily from nature, such as stones, seeds, shells, plants, and flowers to dry as a starting point of the creative process. Kamila strongly believes epiphanies can appear hidden in the most ordinary moments, textures, colours, and fragrances. Education Royal Academy of Art, The Hague, Netherlands, 2019 - 2021 Academy of Fine Arts, Warsaw, Poland, 2015-2019, 2021-2022 Group Exhibitions 2024 On Physiognomy of Nature, de Bouwput, Amsterdam (NL), duo show Sidewalk Hussle, collaboration, exhibition event of Orisun Studio, Den Haag (NL) Art Rotterdam Fair (with Rademakers Gallery) (NL) Wandler x Hotel l'Europe, Amsterdam (NL) 2023 Homebound exhibition, Den Haag (NL) Enter Art Fair (with Rademakers Gallery), Copenhagen (DK) Popłyniemy napięci w prąd radosnej energii, Galeria Nanazenit, Warsaw (PL) Springboard Art Fair, Utrecht (NL) Tiny Gallery x Fig, Sofia, Bulgaria 2022 Image Desires, Mysia 3, Warsaw (PL), solo show DAGLICHT, The Grey Space in The Middle, The Hague (NL) 2021 Fata Morgana (digital exhibition, NL) ART The Hague (NL) Graduation Festival, Royal Academy of Art, The Hague (NL) Awards 2024 Mondriaan Artist Start Fund 2023 Piket Prijs Nominatie Stroom PRO Invest 2022 Nominatie Buning Brongers Prijzen Statement about AOAP Submitted Artwork Discovering hidden in the daylight flowers blooming in the soil full of treasures and life, calms the mind of the one who wondered this way. The tactility and the fragrance are easily recognisable and recalled. Each flower carries a different meaning and perhaps a treasure of one's own memories. You must not reproduce, duplicate, copy, sell, resell or exploit any works. In doing so, you endanger our relationships with artists and directly jeopardise the charitable work we do.
Lot 329
Kamila Sipika Yellow Elder, 2025 Aquarelle on paper Signed on Verso 10 x 15cm (3¾ x 5¾ in.) About Visual artist currently working in The Netherlands and Poland. Nature is rooted at the core of Kamila's creative inspiration as she works with subjects such as ephemerality, decay, tranquillity, folk traditions and timeless plants' symbolism. Her materials of choice are linens and cotton that serve perfectly the natural pigments, oil paints and dying the textiles. Her work encourages viewers to re-consider the relationship between nature and the painting medium. Her practice is founded on the curiosity in the surroundings. She collects a range of objects, primarily from nature, such as stones, seeds, shells, plants, and flowers to dry as a starting point of the creative process. Kamila strongly believes epiphanies can appear hidden in the most ordinary moments, textures, colours, and fragrances. Education Royal Academy of Art, The Hague, Netherlands, 2019 - 2021 Academy of Fine Arts, Warsaw, Poland, 2015-2019, 2021-2022 Group Exhibitions 2024 On Physiognomy of Nature, de Bouwput, Amsterdam (NL), duo show Sidewalk Hussle, collaboration, exhibition event of Orisun Studio, Den Haag (NL) Art Rotterdam Fair (with Rademakers Gallery) (NL) Wandler x Hotel l'Europe, Amsterdam (NL) 2023 Homebound exhibition, Den Haag (NL) Enter Art Fair (with Rademakers Gallery), Copenhagen (DK) Popłyniemy napięci w prąd radosnej energii, Galeria Nanazenit, Warsaw (PL) Springboard Art Fair, Utrecht (NL) Tiny Gallery x Fig, Sofia, Bulgaria 2022 Image Desires, Mysia 3, Warsaw (PL), solo show DAGLICHT, The Grey Space in The Middle, The Hague (NL) 2021 Fata Morgana (digital exhibition, NL) ART The Hague (NL) Graduation Festival, Royal Academy of Art, The Hague (NL) Awards 2024 Mondriaan Artist Start Fund 2023 Piket Prijs Nominatie Stroom PRO Invest 2022 Nominatie Buning Brongers Prijzen Statement about AOAP Submitted Artwork Discovering hidden in the daylight flowers blooming in the soil full of treasures and life, calms the mind of the one who wondered this way. The tactility and the fragrance are easily recognisable and recalled. Each flower carries a different meaning and perhaps a treasure of one's own memories. You must not reproduce, duplicate, copy, sell, resell or exploit any works. In doing so, you endanger our relationships with artists and directly jeopardise the charitable work we do.
Lot 443
Bex Massey Queen, 2025 Watercolour and acrylic on paper Signed on Verso 10 x 15cm (3¾ x 5¾ in.) About Bex Massey's work examines the role of painting and the language of display in the face of popular culture. She amalgamates simulacra and allegory to investigate notions of 'worth' via motifs and tones extracted from her childhood. Massey's previous works and exhibitions have engaged the codes and history of queer culture, along with markers of selfhood and Northern identity. Recent works have become visually softer, more sedate and uncomfortable as the unease and 'value' in this series is created via the relationships between the minimal conflations. The image pairings within these paintings encourage allusion to female bodies, building an underlying sexual tension imbued by the artist into quotidian objects. Compositionally the couplet mirror each other and their visceral epicentres form a visual echo. This is further extended by an implied auditory element as the scenes contain the potential of noise, whether it is the moment a cat yawns or fizzy drink explodes - force in one image is released in its partner. These climactically coupled, female laden, tension imbued depictions are a nod to societies persistently binary notions of gender and therein the habitual reminder that outside the male gaze, Female + Female = Incorrect. Masseys recent fertility journey with her partner has brought this into sharp focus, and this process is alluded to in the titles of canvas which are named after the sperm donors they have considered. This additional layer encourages the work to be viewed via a reproductive lens. Education 2012-2013: MA Fine Art. Merit. Chelsea School of Art, London. 2004-2007: Ba Hons Fine Art. 2:1. The School or Art, Architecture and Design, London. 2025: Just Desserts, Seventeen, London, UK Solo Exhibitions 2024 My deuce, My double, GERTRUDE x Seventeen, London, UK 2022 The truth is out there, Roman Road, London, UK 2020 We didn't start the fire, VOLT Eastbourne, UK 2018 ÀhhÁÀhhÁ, SLUGTOWN, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK 2017 ÀhhÁ, Arebyte LASER, London, UK Group Exhibitions 2024 Strange Days: Surrealist Gaze, Cross Lane Projects, Cumbria, UK Landscape of the Gods, Vestry street, London, UK 2023 Landscape of the Gods, Cross Lane Projects, Cumbria, UK Catastrophic, Unit G, London, UK 2022 Elephant, Art Gazette, London, UK QUEER ART(ists) NOW, Space Station Sixty Five, London, UK Art on a Postcard summer Auction, The Bomb Factory, London, UK Instagram Live, 19 Karen, Queensland, Australia Northern Deviants, Unit G, London, UK Kunst the clown and friends, Gallery 46, London, UK Hyper Contemporary, Hasbrook Galleries, Milwaukee, USA 2021 Play and the post peak, The Factory, London Still Journey, The Columbia, London. The Big Show, Good Mother Gallery, San Francisco. Everywoman, Superchief Gallery, New York. 2020 Pop Now, Gallery 46, London. Body Politic, Susan Boutwell Gallery, Munich. She Performs, The Glass Tank, Oxford. Viewing Room, Harlesden High St, London. Awards 2024 Shortlisted 'Macfarlanes Art Prize'. Shortlisted 'Clyde & Co Art Prize'. 2022 Shortlisted 'BEEP Painting Prize'. 2021 Winner 'Repaint History Prize for Womxn Artists'. 2016 Shortlisted 'Blooom Award, by Warsteiner'. 2016 Shortlisted 'Taking Shape Prize'. 2014 Shortlisted 'Young Masters Art Prize' 2014 Shortlisted 'The Signature Art Prize Gallery Representation Seventeen (London, UK) Statement about AOAP Submitted Artwork 'Queen' is a hopeful bid for equality in light of International Women's Day, as Queen Conch shells are seen as lucky. They are a motif that I return to regularly in my work as they are also evocative of the female form. You must not reproduce, duplicate, copy, sell, resell or exploit any works. In doing so, you endanger our relationships with artists and directly jeopardise the charitable work we do.
Lot 208
LARGE PAIR OF LOUIS XIV STYLE GILTWOOD WALL MIRRORS, heavily carved with scrolling acanthus, shells and masks, 205 x 116cms (2)Comments: viewing recommendedProvenance: The Cornelia Bayley Collection from Plas Teg, an important Jacobean house in Flintshire, North Wales Plas Teg: Once in a Generation Welsh House Clearance — Rogers Jones CoNote: the auction lots are contained in a warehouse near Wrexham. Viewing can be arranged by appointment by calling Richard Hughes on 07593 181017. Purchased lots require collection by appointment once invoices are settled and strictly within ten days (maximum) from the auction date. Purchases which are not collected by this time will incur a charge of £50 per item per day. Please note that most HGV vehicles can enter the warehouse for convenient collection, but we do not offer assistance for heavy and large objects, please be prepared.
Lot 93
George III (1760-1820), gilt copper proof Farthing, 1806, Soho Mint Birmingham, early period, laureate and draped bust right, side whiskers rendered with incuse lines, incuse K on truncation for engraver Conrad Heinrich Kuchler, date below, Latin legend and beaded border surrounding, GEORGIUS III. D: G. REX. rev. inverted die axis, Britannia seated left on rock, holding olive branch and trident with shield, raised K to left on ground to left of shield, SOHO raised on rock to right, ship sailing right to left of Britannia, Latin legend and toothed border surrounding, BRITANNIA, edge grained, 4.74g (Peck 1387 KH13; S.3782). A few tiny marks, toned, practically as struck, with the original copper shells supplied from the Soho Mint, Birmingham.These special presentation proofs were struck in gilt copper at Matthew Boulton's Soho Mint Manufactory in Birmingham using the steam presses invented by James Watt. They were very proud of such pieces, and they were supplied from the factory with copper shells, so often discarded shortly after.Boulton and Watt appeared together on the reverse of the last paper £50 note.The Latin legend translates as "George III by the grace of God, King" and on the reverse "of Britain."
Lot 720
* Folk Art. A wishbone penwipe doll, early-mid 19th century, modelled and painted as a negro woman, with white seed bead eyes, and wearing a green cape over a pink velvet dress, both with pinking shears edging embellished with polychrome seed beads, cream silk ribbon to neck a little frayed, contemporary paper label stitched to front annotated in sepia ink 'once I was a merry thought/growing on a hen/now I am a little slave/made to wipe a pen', length 9 cm QTY: (1)NOTE:A rare negro penwipe doll, judging by the condition never used for its intended purpose of soaking up ink. Long before repurposing became fashionable, it was a necessity, when household items and toys were much more difficult to come by, and in any case, only attainable by the well-off. In the 19th century, and before, it was common to give disposable objects such as bones, feathers, spools and nut shells a new life as functional or ornamental objects, for the home, or as gifts. As well as dolls, wishbones were also used to make dolls' furniture: see The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures for a spinster wishbone doll, and a set of furniture made of wishbones.Founder and director of The National Black Doll Museum, Debra Britt, says that the earliest black dolls to appear in America were wishbone dolls made on slave ships. Although the Slavery Act of 1807 had probably been passed by the time this doll was made, slaves in the colonies were not freed until 1838, and so the debate around slavery was probably still a hot topic when this doll was made; despite this, its creation would not have been controversial as it would be today.
Lot 40
A striking handcrafted wooden sculpture from Ghana, featuring a unique raised fist design integrated into an elongated form with geometric carvings. The base is decorated with inlaid metal and cowrie shells, adding cultural significance and artistic detail. The sculpture is marked with a "Handcrafted in Ghana" sticker on the underside.Issued: 20th centuryDimensions: 15"HCountry of Origin: West AfricaCondition: Age related wear.
Lot 137
Originally designed by Rateau for George and Florence Blumenthal in 1919The crest with repeating shells above a back and seat of chain link fish. Height of back 42 inches, height of seat 13 inches, width 31 inches, depth 22 inches. No condition report? Click below to request one. *Any condition statement is given as a courtesy to a client, is an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact and Doyle New York shall have no responsibility for any error or omission. Please contact the specialist department to request further information or additional images that may be available.Request a condition report
Lot 67
CATHERINE HENRIETTE DE BALZAC D'ENTRAGUES MARQUISE DE VERNEVIL MAITRESSE DE HENRI IVShells on silk damask multiple with medallion, 1978, framed.31 1/2 x 27 inches; 800 x 686 mm.Frame 36 3/4 x 32 3/8 inches; 933 x 822 mm.Provenance:Arras Gallery, New YorkNo condition report? Click below to request one. *Any condition statement is given as a courtesy to a client, is an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact and Doyle New York shall have no responsibility for any error or omission. Please contact the specialist department to request further information or additional images that may be available.Request a condition report
Lot 619
Britains set 2064 155mm Gun military green finish, missing trail spades, with shell case & shell shells, very good original condition, with original corrugated card box circa 1961, Britains 9720 B.A.T Gun, box poor, plus Japanese Tinplate Thunderbolt cap firing tank, box poor, Clifford Series plastic battery operated Rolls Royce, Lone star siege gun, Benbros Searchlight lorry missing searchlight . (6 items)
Lot 784
Britains guns, boxed 2064 American 155mm gun with shell case, loader and four shells, (very good to excellent condition, box fair some wear and surface loss), boxed 9730 4.7’ Naval gun, five unboxed 4.7’ Naval guns and two Field guns, (generally good condition), (9). Please Note: We do not offer In house shipping for Toy Soldiers please see shipping information.
Lot 71
Follower of Jan Davidsz. de Heem, Dutch 1606-1683- Still life with cherries, grapes, peaches and other fruit on a wooden table; oil on canvas, 37.1 x 81.5 cm. Provenance: Private Collection, UK / Kenya (by descent). Note: De Heem was one of the greatest painters of still lifes in the Netherlands, combining a brilliance and harmony of colour along with an accurate rendering of objects: flowers, in all their variety; European and tropical fruits; lobsters and oysters; butterflies and moths; stone and metal; snails and sea shells. The present work, finely executed and brilliantly rendered, is very much evocative of de Heem's sumptuous compositions.
Lot 58
A rare Second War armed merchant cruiser operations D.S.M. group of eleven awarded to Leading Seaman L. R. V. White, Royal Fleet Reserve, late Mercantile Marine and Royal Navy, who was decorated for his gallant deeds in the famous South Atlantic clash between the Carnarvon Castle and enemy raider Thor. He was subsequently Mentioned in Despatches for his bravery when L.S.T. 422 was lost in a mine-field during a violent storm off Anzio on 26 January 1944 with the loss of over 450 lives Distinguished Service Medal, G.VI.R. (P.J. 49705 L. R. V. White, L./S., H.M.S. Carnarvon Castle); British War Medal 1914-20 (J. 49705 L. R. V. White, A.B., R.N.); Mercantile Marine War Medal 1914-18 (Leonard R. V. White); Victory Medal 1914-19 (J. 49705 L. R. V. White, A.B., R.N.); 1939-45 Star; Atlantic Star; Africa Star; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, with M.I.D. oak leaf; Royal Fleet Reserve L.S. & G.C., G.V.R., 2nd issue, coinage bust (J. 49705 (PO. B. 17439) L. R. V. White, L.S., R.F.R.) minor official corrections to naming on the first and last, the three Great War awards with edge bruising and polished, thus fine, the remainder good very fine and better (11) £1,800-£2,200 --- Importation Duty This lot is subject to importation duty of 5% on the hammer price unless exported outside the UK --- --- Provenance: Strong Collection, Dix Noonan Webb, May 2011. D.S.M. London Gazette 6 June 1941: ‘For great courage and devotion to duty in action against an armed merchant raider.’ The original recommendation states: ‘On the occasion of the action between H.M.S. Carnarvon Castle and a German armed raider on 5 December 1940, with all lights out, owing to the circuits being cut by a shell, and a hit just over the magazine causing a fire, he carried out his duty with the utmost courage, in the most trying conditions.’ M.I.D. London Gazette 1 August 1944. The original commendation from the Commander-in-Chief states: ‘It has been brought to my notice that on 26 January 1944, when L.S.T. 422 was lost by enemy action, the officers and ratings named above displayed great courage and devotion to duty in remaining aboard their ship, endeavouring to save her although she was heavily on fire and known to be carrying petrol and ammunition. The officers and ratings concerned are to be commended on their behaviour which was in accordance with the highest traditions of the Service.’ Leonard Richard Vincent White was born in Southampton, Hampshire in February 1900 and entered the Mercantile Marine as boy seaman in 1915, in which year he served in the Essequibo, Soudan and Walmer Castle. Transferring to the Royal Navy in February 1916, he served as a Boy 1st Class in H.M.S. Patia from May 1917 until January 1918, and, with the exception of three months ashore in early 1918, as an Able Seaman in H.M. Yacht Vanessa until the end of hostilities, his service record noting that he shared in the prize bounty for the destruction of a U-Boat - most probably the U-107 which fell victim to a depth-charge attack delivered by the Vanessa off the Yorkshire coast on 27 July 1918, confirmation of her “kill” including the headless body of a German sailor. Transferring to the Royal Fleet Reserve as a Leading Seaman in February 1930, White was awarded his L.S. & G.C. Medal in April 1933 and mobilised in his old rate on the renewal of hostilities in September 1939, when he joined the armed merchant cruiser Carnarvon Castle, in which capacity he was still serving at the time of her famous clash with the German raider Thor in the South Atlantic on 5 December 1940. Kenneth Poolman’s Armed Merchant Cruisers takes up the story: ‘Twenty minutes after the first shots had been fired the range was down to 14,000 yards, which gave Carnarvon Castle’s old guns a chance. Soon both ships were within range of each other. The German turned to port. Carnarvon Castle’s electrical fire control communications were badly shot up, making salvo firing difficult, but her gunners thought they had made hits on the enemy’s stern. The raider turned to starboard, made smoke and retired behind it, then reappeared again and opened fire with her starboard battery in four-gun salvos. At 8.38 p.m. Carnarvon Castle was rapidly closing the range when two torpedoes were sighted from the bridge, their white tracks on slightly diverging courses. Hardy turned the big A.M.C. under full helm to starboard and steered between them, and they passed harmlessly fifty yards away on either beam. Four minutes later the range was down to 8,000 yards. Thor, with the British shells going over her, turned right round to bring her port battery to bear once more, and hit Carnarvon Castle’s upperworks repeatedly, setting her on fire in several places. At ten minutes past nine Hardy decided to open the range and get the fires under control behind a smoke screen. All his fire control circuits were disabled and his guns in individual control. The haze had increased, and the enemy was continually turning smoke on and off, making spotting through the splashes of her shots very difficult and hitting a matter of luck, but from Carnarvon Castle they saw a shell burst under the enemy’s bridge at the extreme range of 14,000 yards. After that the A.M.Cs shells were falling short, while the German 5.9s were pitching round her. The raider continued firing until the range had opened to 18,000 yards. Hardy altered course to try and keep in touch, but the enemy disappeared behind his smokescreen and the ever increasing haze, steaming at 18 knots towards the north-east. Thor’s old guns were giving trouble with leaking recoil cylinders and barrels that would not train properly, but the Carnarvon Castle was in a far worse condition. It was 11.15 before she had put out all her fires. In view of her extensive damage Captain Hardy decided to steer for Montevideo. Commodore Pegram, who had succeeded Harwood in command of the South American Divison at the end of August, met Carnarvon Castle on 6 December in the cruiser Enterprise, inspected her damage and ordered her into Montevideo for repair, then sent Enterprise north to look for her opponent, but the raider had disappeared. Carnarvon Castle buried her six dead and reached Montevideo at 7 p.m. on 7 December with her sick bay full of wounded. Asturias returned to the South American Division once more, as her relief. The ship was too badly damaged to go into action again immediately, though there was no immediate need to dock her. The Uruguayan authorities granted her seventy-two hours to make immediate essential repairs. In contrast to the cold reception given to the Graf Spee a year previously when she had sought refuge from Admiral Harwood’s squadron, local repair firms were eager to offer their services to the British A.M.C., and some of the plates cut from the pocket battleship’s scuttled hulk out in the estuary were actually used to patch up Carnarvon Castle’s shell holes. With temporary repairs completed, Carnarvon Castle left for Table Bay, Cape Town. She was saluted by a special guard of honour as she passed through the harbour entrance.’ White, whose actions prevented the magazine blowing-up, was awarded the D.S.M., one of five ratings from Carnarvon Castle to be gazetted for the same distinction in June 1941, and he received his decoration at a Buckingham Palace investiture in April 1942, taking with him his wife and son to Buckingham Palace. As he late wrote: ‘It was shortly before that my wife lost all her family in an air raid.’ Departing the armed merchant cruiser in the following month, he served at the gunnery establishment Vernon and the Greenock base Orlando...
Lot 263
Glass Bottle Containing Soundings from the H.M.S. Challenger Expedition, 1876,Glass Bottle, hand blown with pontil mark with label that reads 'Washigs of Soundings No.337 Date 9.March.1876 Lat37 47 5 Long 30 20 W Depth 1715 fthm', bottle with original contents.Provenance originally from a collection of microscope preparation equipment belonging to Charles ElcockCharles Elcock (1834-1910) was a well known figure in the world of microscopy, particularly known for his expertise in creating microscope slides featuring foraminifera, a group of amoeboid protists characterized by their intricate shell structures. Born in Pontefract, Yorkshire, England, on August 18, 1834, Elcock was the second son of Charles and Mary Ann Elcock. The Elcock family were Quakers, a religious background that profoundly influenced Charles throughout his life, as reflected in his writings and humanitarian efforts during the Franco-Prussian War. Elcock's early career was varied, encompassing teaching and publishing, but it was his later work in microscopy for which he is remembered.Early Life and Career.Elcock's early years were marked by a strong education and a diverse set of experiences. After the death of his father in 1837, his mother took up teaching to support the family. Elcock attended the Friends' School at Rawdon, which was a formative experience given the Quaker values emphasized there. His early professional life included roles as a teacher and printer, and he maintained a close association with the Quaker community throughout. By the 1860s, Elcock was involved in publishing religious texts, which eventually led to his work in London and Gloucester, where he likely developed his interest in microscopy through his connection with Alfred William Bennett, a prominent member of the Royal Microscopical Society.Microscopy and Foraminifera.Charles Elcock's most significant contribution to science was his work with microscopy, particularly in mounting foraminifera on microscope slides. Foraminifera are microscopic marine organisms that produce a shell, often referred to as a "test," which can be quite intricate and beautiful. Elcock's slides were celebrated not just for their scientific utility but also for their aesthetic appeal. His work involved arranging these tiny shells meticulously on slides, often organizing them by species and orientation, which made his slides valuable for both scientific study and as objects of beauty.Elcock's expertise in preparing these slides was widely recognized. He became a member of the Belfast Naturalists' Field Club shortly after moving to Ireland, where his skills in mounting foraminifera were lauded. In 1879, his work won a prize from the club for its artistic skill and superior finish. His techniques and methods were innovative, and he shared his knowledge through articles, most notably in the Journal of the Postal Microscopical Society, where he also advertised his slides.Legacy and Impact.Elcock's slides were distributed through well-known retailers in London, Manchester, and Bath, and they were highly regarded by contemporary scientists and hobbyists alike. Reviews of his work praised the meticulous attention to detail and the scientific value of the slides. His contributions to microscopy, particularly in the study of foraminifera, have left a lasting legacy in the field. While much of his life was also dedicated to religious writing and humanitarian efforts, it is his work in microscopy that has cemented his place in the history of science. A large part of his original equipment and the slides he produced is held at the Whipple Museum of Science in Cambridge: https://www.whipplemuseum.cam.ac.uk/explore-whipple-collections/microscopes/foraminifera-slides-and-working-tools-microscope-slide-makerChallenger Expedition: Revolutionizing Oceanography through Deep-Sea SoundingsThe Challenger Expedition (1872-1876), a pioneering oceanographic endeavor, marked a turning point in our understanding of marine sciences. This British voyage, named after the HMS Challenger, was the first dedicated scientific exploration to systematically study ocean basins, marine life, and geology. Among its most critical contributions were the extensive soundings, temperature recordings, and water samples taken during the expedition, which have had a lasting impact on oceanography.Deep-sea soundings, the process of measuring the depth of the ocean, were among the most revolutionary aspects of the Challenger Expedition. Utilizing newly developed sounding equipment, the expedition made nearly 500 soundings across the world’s oceans. These measurements were pivotal, not only in mapping the seabed but also in discovering the global patterns of oceanic trenches, underwater mountains, and plains.Prior to the Challenger Expedition, the depths of the oceans were largely unknown. The sounding techniques employed involved lowering weighted lines, known as sounding lines, into the ocean until they reached the seabed. The depths recorded by Challenger revealed for the first time the complex topography of the ocean floor. One of the most significant findings was the Challenger Deep in the Mariana Trench, recorded as the deepest part of the world's oceans.The data collected on these soundings provided foundational knowledge that spurred further scientific inquiry. For instance, the temperature profiles of ocean waters at different depths, also recorded during these soundings, helped scientists to begin understanding thermocline and its role in oceanic circulation patterns.The implications of these findings were vast. They challenged previous notions of a lifeless deep sea by providing evidence of life at all depths, and the samples of sediment helped develop the fields of marine geology and paleontology. This wealth of data collected by the Challenger laid the groundwork for modern oceanography and prompted the establishment of permanent oceanographic institutions.The Challenger Expedition was instrumental in transforming oceanography from a field cluttered with myths and speculations to a serious scientific discipline. Its soundings opened up new realms in the understanding of oceanic depths and laid down the benchmarks for future explorations, forever altering our relationship with the oceans. The expedition not only charted unknown waters but also set the course for future marine scientific endeavors, proving its legacy in the history of science.
Lot 427
Collection of Penguin Natural History Booksincluding Spiders, Seashore Life and Pattern, Flowers of Marsh and Stream, Edible Fungi, Semi-Precious Stones, Poisonous Fungi, British Butterflies, Flowers of the Meadow, Wild Flowers of the Chalk, Garden Birds, Flowers of the Woods, British Shells, Mosses, British Reptiles and AmphibiaVarious conditions, most bumped to corners, some with splits to spine
Lot 459
The Second World War ‘V.C. action’ D.S.M. group of four awarded to Able Seaman A. Spendlove, Royal Navy, one of a handful of men to survive the extremely gallant action fought by H.M.S. Li Wo against impossible odds off Sumatra in February 1942 Distinguished Service Medal, G.VI.R. (A.B. A. Spendlove, C/JX. 131500) officially engraved naming; 1939-45 Star; Pacific Star; War Medal 1939-45, mounted for wearing, good very fine and better (4) £7,000-£9,000 --- Importation Duty This lot is subject to importation duty of 5% on the hammer price unless exported outside the UK --- --- Provenance: Dix Noonan Webb, September 2006. D.S.M. London Gazette 17 December 1946: ‘A member of the 4-inch gun crew, who fought with courage and effect in the last action of H.M.S. Li Wo.’ Albert Spendlove was one of two crew members to receive the D.S.M. for this extraordinary action. His captain, Temporary Lieutenant Thomas Wilkinson, R.N.R., was awarded a posthumous V.C., while Temporary Sub-Lieutenant R. G. G. Stanton, R.N.R., received the D.S.O., Acting Petty Officer A. W. Thompson the C.G.M., and six others “mentions”, three of them posthumously. No better summary of the action may be quoted than the citation for the V.C. to Wilkinson, which headed the awards to the crew of the Li Wo announced in the London Gazette of 17 December 1946: ‘On 14 February 1942, H.M.S. Li Wo, a patrol vessel of 1,000 tons, formerly a passenger steamer on the Upper Yangtse River, was on passage from Singapore to Batavia. Her ship’s company consisted of eighty-four officers and men, including one civilian; they were mainly survivors from His Majesty’s Ships which had been sunk, and a few from units of the Army and Royal Air Force. Her armament was one 4-inch gun, for which she had only thirteen practise shells, and two machine-guns. Since leaving Singapore the previous day, the ship had beaten off four air attacks, in one of which fifty-two machines took part, and had suffered considerable damage. Late in the afternoon, she sighted two enemy convoys, the larger of which was escorted by Japanese naval units, including a heavy cruiser and some destroyers. The Commanding Officer, Lieutenant T. Wilkinson, R.N.R., gathered his scratch ship’s company together and told them that, rather than try to escape, he had decided to fight to the last, in the hope that he might inflict damage upon the enemy. In making this decision, which drew resolute support from the whole ship’s company, Lieutenant Wilkinson knew that his ship faced certain destruction, and that his own chances of survival were small. H.M.S. Li Wo hoisted her battle ensign and made straight for the enemy. In the action which followed, the machine-guns were used with effect upon the crews of all ships in range, and a volunteer gun’s crew manned the 4-inch gun, which they fought with such purpose that a Japanese transport was badly hit and set on fire. After a little over an hour, H.M.S. Li Wo had been critically damaged and was sinking. Lieutenant Wilkinson then decided to ram his principal target, the large transport, which had been abandoned by her crew. It is known that this ship burnt fiercely throughout the night following the action, and was probably sunk. H.M.S. Li Wo’s gallant fight ended when, her shells spent, and under heavy fire from the enemy cruiser, Lieutenant Wilkinson finally ordered abandon ship. He himself remained on board, and went down with her. There were only about ten survivors, who were later made prisoners of war. Lieutenant Wilkinson’s valour was equalled only by the skill with which he fought his ship. The Victoria Cross is bestowed upon him posthumously in recognition both of his own heroism and self-sacrifice, and of all who fought and died with him.’ A closer picture of the activities of the 4-inch gun crew in which Spendlove served may be found in an account of the action by Acting Petty Officer A. W. Thompson, who, as related above, was awarded the C.G.M.: ‘During the afternoon of Saturday 14 February, we sighted a Japanese convoy on the horizon, escorted by cruisers. The captain decided to attack. He sent for me, and explained the situation, which was serious. I volunteered to take charge of the 4-inch gun and as the cruisers were out of range I opened fire on the leading ship in the convoy. There were approximately 15 ships in the convoy, of various tonnages, the ship in the lead being about 2,500 tons. I scored a hit on this ship with my second shot. The merchant ships retaliated, causing a great many casualties. Meanwhile, the cruisers were manoeuvring for position to open fire. By this time the merchant ships were in the line of fire of their warships. I scored a second hit just above the waterline and flames poured out. We were now closing the leading ship rapidly, and I scored a direct hit on the Bridge superstructure, blowing most of it away. This caused great panic among the Japanese on board and many of them started to abandon ship. By this time the merchant ship was well on fire, and we went full speed astern to get clear. Unfortunately as we did so another salvo from a warship hit us, setting the cordite round the gun on fire. The captain gave the orders to abandon ship ... ’ Worse was to follow in the water. Thompson continues: ‘The Japanese destroyers circled at high speed through the wreckage, machine-guns and rifles firing at any survivor they could see. They threw hand grenades and even lumps of coal in their rage at seeing one of their transports sunk with such impudence. There were only eight of us, all wounded, left alive by the time they left the area, and we found a swamped lifeboat to hang onto. Some hours later two of these died ... ’ These gallant few eventually reached Banka Island, where they were captured: ‘We didn’t know it then, but that was the beginning of three and a half years of abject slavery, starvation and brutality far beyond the ken of the ordinary western civilised mind.’ Sold with comprehensive copied research.
Lot 387
The rare Great War D.S.M. group of five awarded to Stoker Petty Officer A. Britton, Royal Navy, who was decorated for his gallantry in H.M.S. Laurel at the battle of Heligoland Bight in August 1914, his actions subsequently featuring in Deeds That Thrill the Empire Distinguished Service Medal, G.V.R. (289893 A. Britton, Sto. P.O., H.M.S. Laurel); 1914-15 Star (289893 A. Britton D.S.M., S.P.O., R.N.); British War and Victory Medals, with M.I.D. oak leaves (289893 A. Britton. S.P.O., R.N.); Royal Navy L.S. & G.C., G.V.R., 1st issue (289893 Alfred Britton, Sto. P.O., H.M.S. Hecla:) mounted as worn, nearly very fine (5) £2,400-£2,800 --- Importation Duty This lot is subject to importation duty of 5% on the hammer price unless exported outside the UK --- --- Provenance: Dix Noonan Webb, June 2002. One of 23 D.S.M.s for the battle of Heligoland Bight on 28 August 1914, the only D.S.M.s to be gazetted in 1914. D.S.M. London Gazette 23 October 1914. The recommendation states: ‘George H. Sturdy, Chief Stoker, and Alfred Britton, Stoker Petty Officer, both of H.M.S. Laurel, who both showed great coolness in putting out a fire near the centre gun after an explosion had occurred there; several lyddite shells were lying in the immediate vicinity.’ Alfred Britton was born at Stanstead, Suffolk on 23 November 1879, and joined the Royal Navy as a Stoker 2nd Class in September 1898. Having then been advanced to Stoker Petty Officer in December 1908 and awarded his L.S. & G.C. Medal in September 1913, he joined the destroyer H.M.S. Laurel in April 1914 and remained likewise employed for the duration of the Great War. Of events in the Heligoland Bight on 28 August 1914, Deeds That Thrill the Empire takes up the story: ‘When the action was at its hottest, the Laurel, Liberty, Lysander and Laertes found themselves suddenly in action against three of the enemy’s cruisers and a number of destroyers. In the early stages of the action Laurel and Liberty, which had been sent in advance of the light cruisers, were both exposed for some time to an attack of overwhelming strength. The Laurel, under Commander Frank Rose, found herself in action, and almost unsupported, against two German cruisers and a number of destroyers, whose efficiency had not yet been affected by meeting ships that could reply to them on equal terms, and she suffered severely. The first shell that struck her went into the engine room, killing and wounding a number of men. Next, her forward gun was struck, and put out of action, while the troubles of the engineers’ department were soon after increased by a shot which demolished the after funnel and started a fire which threatened the destruction of the ship. In close action the fore bridge is always the main object of attack; and so it was in this case. Commander Rose was struck in the left leg by a shell splinter early in the action; but he refused to leave his post of danger. His wound was hastily bandaged; and when, some time later, he was struck in the other leg, he still declined to be taken below, although, since he could no longer stand, he was compelled to hand over the command of his ship to Lieutenant Charles Peploe. By the time assistance arrived the Laurel was almost as done as any warship could be - and it was, quite likely, a German shell that saved her. She lay, almost helpless, an easy target for the enemy, when a shot struck her amidships; and, whether it set her oil fuel smouldering, or whether it was a particularly damaging sort of shell that did not quite “come off,” it enveloped her in a thick cloud of black smoke. Before it cleared away to disclose the target more distinctly to the enemy, our cruisers had arrived, and the Laurel was saved.’ Britton was finally demobilised in October 1920. Sold with copied record of service and other research.
Lot 321
The rare Baltic 1855 operations C.B. group of four awarded to Colonel J. M. Wemyss, Royal Marine Artillery, whose innovative command of the R.M.A’s mortars at the bombardment of Sveaborg achieved spectacular results: ‘In the thirty daylight hours, during which the bombardment continued, the guns and mortars discharged on either side averaged between 20 or 30 a minute, which will convey some idea of the furious nature of the engagement’ The Most Honourable Order of The Bath, C.B. (Military) Companion’s breast badge, 22 carat gold and enamels, hallmarked London 1843, with narrow gold swivel-bar suspension and ribbon buckle; Naval General Service 1793-1840, 1 clasp, Syria (John M. Wemyss, Lieut. R.M.A.); Baltic 1854-55, unnamed as issued; St. Jean d’Acre 1840, silver, unnamed as issued, fitted with straight-bar suspension and plain faced clasp, the first with slightly chipped central wreaths, one or two edge bruises and minor contact wear, otherwise generally good very fine (4) £4,000-£5,000 --- Importation Duty This lot is subject to importation duty of 5% on the hammer price unless exported outside the UK --- --- Provenance: Dix Noonan Webb, December 2005. C.B. London Gazette 2 January 1856. John Maurice Wemyss was appointed a 2nd Lieutenant in the Royal Marine Artillery in December 1837. He subsequently distinguished himself in the Syria operations of 1840, being mentioned in the despatch of Captain Austin, R.N. of H.M.S. Cyclops. In his own words, taken from his statement of services, Wemyss describes his part in the campaign thus: ‘On 10 September 1840, I landed with the Anglo-Turkish force at D’Jouni Bay on the coast of Syria and remained nine days in the field citadel constructed there. On the 19 September 1840, I re-embarked in the Cyclops, which vessel was much employed in distributing arms, stopping convoys and firing on the enemy whenever they appeared on the coast. On 26 September 1840, I landed with the Turkish force under the orders of Captain Austin, commanding H.M.S. Cyclops, for the purpose of carrying by assault the town of Sidon, and on this occasion was favourably spoken of by that officer for having turned one of the enemy’s guns (mounted in an outwork) on the Egyptian soldiers defending the town, thereby facilitating the disembarkation of the Turkish troops. This piece of service is adverted to in my certificate from the Cyclops. During the remainder of my time in the Cyclops, I served in various ports of the Mediterranean, chiefly at Alexandria, with a sketch of the defences of which I furnished Captain Austin for the information of their Lordships.’ Advanced to 1st Lieutenant in October 1841, and to Captain in October 1851, Wemyss spent most of the intervening period as a Gunnery Examining Officer back in the U.K., but in 1855 he arrived in the Baltic aboard the Orion, and, as the C.O. of the R.M.A’s mortar detachments at the bombardment of Sveaborg on 9 August 1855, distinguished himself sufficiently to be given the Brevet of Major and awarded the C.B., the latter a rare distinction indeed for a Captain of Marines. Of this fact Wemyss’ senior stated: ‘This is the first instance in the Naval service of the C.B. being given for service as a Captain of Marines, but in his case most justly given, as he had an important command and by his throwing away old ideas and pouring in more rapid mortar fire in the first hours than ever had been thought of before, he greatly contributed to the success, as we got up rapidly such a body of fire that it could not be put out.’ While in his Sveaborg despatch, Admiral R. S. Dundas, C.B., noted: ‘The direction of this service (mortar boats) was confided to Captain J. M. Wemyss of the Royal Marine Artillery, assisted by Captain Lawrence, and Captain Schomberg, and every exertion was used by these officers to press the fire of the mortars to the fullest extent, which could be deemed proper. My especial thanks are due to the Officers and men of the Royal Marine Artillery for the manner in which their important duties have been performed. The cool and steady manner with which they continued to conduct the duties of their staticas deserves the highest praise, and I have much pleasure in calling their Lordships attention to the services of Captain Wemyss, as well as those of Captains Lawrence and Schomberg of that distinguished Corps.’ An indication of the rate of fire of the R.M.A. detachments may be gleaned from the simple statistic that the 15 British mortar vessels expended 3100 shells (equivalent to 1000 tons of iron), hot work that resulted in three of the mortars bursting. Wemyss later wrote: ‘If it is unpleasant to stand over a bursting shell, how much more so was it to have to serve a mortar which is likely to burst the next round. I think our men in the Baltic behaved splendidly in making no difficulty when three mortars had burst and the remainder were so unsound ... I had in the Baltic not only to organize a new service with a long forgotten weapon, and answer for its effects in action being destructive at a great distance, but also I had to depart from the old custom of firing slow.’ Finally, for the purposes of illustrating the devastating effect the R.M.A’s mortars had upon the enemy, the following eye-witness observations are not without interest: ‘By 7 o’clock all was ready for the opening of the bombardment, and at 7.30 Captain Wemyss gave the signal by firing a shell from the Pickle. As every mortar was loaded, the response was immediate and terrific. With a simultaneous roar about five and twenty huge shells sped away, and mounting up, until over Vargon and Gustafsvard, thundered straight down upon them with destructive effect. Of the opening salvo, one or two exploded short or went over among the shipping in the harbour, but the majority crashed down where intended, right over the magazines, and, on bursting, threw up columns of white smoke, mingled with dark earth and rubbish. At the same moment as the mortars, the gunboats also opened a very heavy fire on the forts of shot and shell from their 68-pounders. The Russian reply was immediate and appalling; as if by magic the smoke of heavy guns issued from every nook and post, high and low, all over the islands, from hundreds of cannon and mortars; a perfect storm of shot, hot and cold, and shell at all angles of cross fire, came towards us, hissing, splashing, ricocheting in every direction. If that awful shower of missiles had reached us with effect, we should, indeed, have been in a bad way! Fortunately, it did us no practical harm, but some of the gunboats had narrow escapes ... Shortly after 9 o’clock it was becoming very evident our shell fire was having a terrible effect, especially on Vargon, from which, as the barracks, stores, and various buildings caught fire in detail, dense columns of smoke began to arise. The magazines also were becoming denuded of the earth masses atop through the explosion of our embedded shells. Altogether the fire was constant and relentless; while the Russian’s was fitful and almost ineffective. At 10.30 our shells reached a magazine, and a prodigious cloud of white smoke arose over Vargon; from which emerged dark masses of stones, guns, and even men’s bodies. It was followed by a noise like thunder, and a heavy concussion as of an earthquake. When the smoke cleared away, one of the great forts was disclosed a ruin, at which our men manned the rigging and cheered. The tremendous nature of the explosion so frightened the sightseers, especially the ladies at Helsingfors, that they scuttled off in every direction ... great shouts and commotion overhead caused a simultaneous rush on ...
Lot 384
The impressive ‘Flag Officer Royal Yachts’ G.C.V.O., Great War C.B. group of thirteen to Admiral Sir Henry Buller, Royal Navy, who commanded H.M.S. Highflyer in her epic engagement with the German cruiser Kaisar Wilhelm der Grosse off Rio de Oro in August 1914, an action extensively portrayed the pages of ‘Deeds That Thrill The Empire’ The Royal Victorian Order, G.C.V.O., Knight Grand Cross set of insignia, comprising sash badge, silver-gilt and enamels and breast star, silver, with gilt and enamel centre, both officially numbered ‘581’ on reverse, in Collingwood, London numbered case of issue; The Most Honourable Order of the Bath, C.B. (Military) Companion’s neck badge, silver-gilt and enamels, in damaged Garrard, London case of issue; 1914-15 Star (Capt. H. T. Buller, M.V.O., R.N.); British War and Victory Medals (Capt. H. T. Buller. R.N.); Defence Medal 1939-45; Jubilee 1935; Coronation 1953; Russia, Empire, Order of St. Anne, Third Class breast badge by Keibel, gold and enamels, two reverse arms chipped, these last seven mounted court-style as worn; Belgium, Order of the Crown, Knight Grand Cross set of insignia, by Wolravens, Brussels, comprising sash badge, silver-gilt and enamels, and breast star, silver with silver-gilt and enamel centre, in case of issue; Roumania, Order of the Star (Military), Second Class set of insignia, by Resch, Bucharest, comprising neck badge, silver-gilt and enamels, and breast star, silver, with silver-gilt and enamel centre, in case of issue, unless otherwise described, good very fine and better (14) £4,000-£5,000 --- Importation Duty This lot is subject to importation duty of 5% on the hammer price unless exported outside the UK --- --- Provenance: Spink, July 2000. G.C.V.O. London Gazette 11 August 1930: For services as Flag Officer Royal Yachts. C.B. London Gazette 1 January 1919: ‘In recognition of services during the War.’ The original recommendation states: ‘Sank Kaiser Wilhelm de Grosse. Extract from letter to Rear-Admiral, Carnarvon: Captain Buller’s action has their Lordship’s complete approval in every respect for the humane and correct manner in which he did his duty.’ Henry Tritton Buller was born in 1873, the son of Admiral Sir Alexander Buller, G.C.B., of Erie Hall, Devon and Belmore House, West Cowes, and entered the Royal Navy as a Cadet in January 1887. Regular seagoing duties aside, his subsequent career appointments also included his services as First Lieutenant of the Royal Yacht Victoria and Albert in 1902-04, for which he was awarded the Russian Order of St. Anne in October 1904 and advanced to Commander, and as Commanding Officer of the Royal Naval College, Dartmouth between January 1908 and June 1911. On the Prince of Wales passing out of the college in 1911, Buller was appointed M.V.O. (London Gazette 12 April 1911, refers) and advanced to Captain. His next appointment was Flag Captain Home Fleets at Portsmouth, 1911-12, whence he was appointed to the command of H.M.S. Highflyer, the training ship for special entry cadets. On the day hostilities broke out in 1914, Buller in Highflyer captured to S.S. Tubantia, carrying German reservists and a gold shipment. Three weeks later, he found the German commerce raider Kaiser Wilhelm Der Grosse, coaling in Spanish territorial waters off the mouth of the Oro River, West Africa. On offering the faster vessel the chance to surrender, Buller received the signal: “Germans never surrender, and you must respect the neutrality of Spain.” But since it was known that the commerce raider had abused Spanish neutrality by using the river mouth as a permanent base for some weeks, Buller gave warning that he would attack in half an hour, allowing time for the colliers to withdraw with such personnel as the German captain felt fit. Deeds That Thrill the Empire takes up the story: ‘As soon as the period of grace had elapsed the Highflyer again inquired if the enemy would surrender, and when the answer came, “We have nothing more to say,” the action opened without further parley. The British cruiser let fly with one of her 6-inch guns at a range of just under 10,000 yards; but the shot fell short. The enemy’s guns were smaller - 4.1-inch - but much more modern, and before our shells began to hit the enemy the German projectiles were falling thickly around and upon the Highflyer. One shell went between a man’s legs and burst just behind him, peppering him with splinters. Another struck the bridge just after the captain had left it to go into the conning-tower, and knocked a searchlight overboard. All this time the Highflyer was steaming in so as to get her guns well within range; and when the 100lb shells began to hit they “kept on target” in a manner that spoke well for the training of our gunners. One shot carried away a 4-inch gun on the after-deck of the enemy. Another burst under the quarter-deck and started a fire; a third - perhaps the decisive shot of the action - struck her amidships on the water-line and tore a great rent in her side. From stem to stern the 6-inch shells tore their destructive way, and it was less than half and hour after the fighting began that the “pride of the Atlantic” began to slacken her fire. The water was pouring into the hole amidships, and she slowly began to heel to port. Three boat loads of men were seen to leave her and make for the shore … The Highflyer immediately signalled that if the enemy wished to abandon ship, they would not be interfered with; and as the guns of the Kaiser Wilhelm had by this time ceased to answer our fire, the Highflyer ceased also, and two boats were sent off with surgeons, sick-berth attendants and medical stores, to do what they could for the enemy’s wounded. The ship herself was battered beyond all hope, and presently heeled over and sank in about fifty feet of water. Although Highflyer had been hit about fifteen times her losses amounted to only one man killed and five slightly wounded. The enemy’s loss is unknown, but it is estimated that at least two hundred were killed or wounded, while nearly four hundred of those who had escaped in the colliers were captured a fortnight later in the Hamburg-America liner Bethania … ’ The same source concludes: ‘It was noteworthy as being the first duel of the naval war and as being the first definite step in the process of “clearing the seas.” It is not often the Admiralty evinces any enthusiasm in the achievements of the Fleet, and the following message despatched to the victorious cruiser is therefore all the more remarkable: “Admiralty to Highflyer – Bravo! You have rendered a service not only to Britain, but to the peaceful commerce of the world. The German officers and crew appear to have carried out their duties with humanity and restraint, and are therefore worthy of all seamanlike consideration.” Buller departed Highflyer in May 1916, when he was appointed Naval Assistant to the Second Sea Lord at the Admiralty, but he returned to sea as Flag Captain in the Barham in April 1918, and as Commanding Officer of the Valiant at the war’s end. A succession of ‘royal appointments’ ensued in the 20s and 30s, commencing with his command of the Malaya during the Duke of Connaught’s visit to India in early 1921. He was appointed C.V.O. (London Gazette 25 March 1921, refers) and advanced to Rear-Admiral. He then served as Officer Commanding H.M.’s Yachts during the period of King George V’s cruise in the Mediterranean, and was appointed K.C.V.O. (London Gazette 22 April 1925, refers). ...
Lot 495
The notable Northern Ireland and South Atlantic campaign group of three awarded to Sergeant (later Lieutenant) I. D. Fisk, Royal Marines, who was mentioned in despatches for gallantry whilst serving as Missile/Gun Director aboard H.M.S. Yarmouth, when during repeated Argentine air attacks ‘his efforts were rewarded by at least two confirmed kills’ General Service 1962-2007, 1 clasp, Northern Ireland (P028197B I. D. Fisk L. Cpl RM); South Atlantic 1982, with rosette and M.I.D. oak leaf (Sgt I D Fisk P028197B RM); Royal Navy L.S. & G.C., E.II.R., 2nd issue (Lt I D Fisk RM) mounted as worn, good very fine (3) £4,000-£5,000 --- Importation Duty This lot is subject to importation duty of 5% on the hammer price unless exported outside the UK --- --- Provenance: Dix Noonan Webb, May 2016. M.I.D. London Gazette 8 October 1982. The original recommendation states: 'During the period of the Falklands conflict, Sergeant Fisk served as Missile/Gun Director (Visual) in H.M.S. Yarmouth. In the period prior to hostilities he used considerable initiative to acquire and mount extra close range Anti-Aircraft weapons on the upper deck and trained crews to use them. During hostilities and, in particular, during amphibious operations in San Carlos Water the days following (21 May-2 June), the ship came under numerous air attacks. Throughout these attacks Sergeant Fisk conducted the close range Air defence of the ship from his exposed position on the G.D.P. with exceptional vigour, courage and leadership. His efforts were rewarded by at least two confirmed kills and several other aircraft were damaged or deterred by close range weapons. Throughout long periods of less immediate danger, but often in appalling weather, between late April and late June he sustained the morale and vigilance of his lookouts and weapon crews in their exposed positions. Although no single act of gallantry or leadership can be cited, Sergeant Fisk's stamina, courage and leadership made a major contribution to the effectiveness of the ship over a prolonged period and are worthy of recognition.’ A further endorsement on his recommendation, signed by Admiral J. D. E. Fieldhouse, states: ‘Sergeant Fisk showed outstanding courage, resource and leadership during repeated air attacks. He is recommended for the award of a Mention in Despatches.’ Ian David Fisk joined H.M.S. Yarmouth in August 1981 and had been serving in the Royal Marines for 12 years at the time of being recommended for his “Mention” in June 1982. The Yarmouth was a Type 12 Rothsay Class Frigate and steamed almost 40,000 miles in the period April-July 1982, often in atrocious conditions. She arrived off the Falklands in late April and quickly saw action. When on 4 May Sheffield was hit by an Exocet missile, Arrow and Yarmouth having narrowly been missed by a second missile, went to her aid. While Arrow was fighting the fire, Yarmouth fought off a possible submarine attack. She then joined Arrow alongside Sheffield and fought the fire until the destroyer was abandoned and the survivors taken off. For the next four days of foggy weather Yarmouth remained with the carrier group, before being despatched to take the still floating Sheffield in tow. She went along side the stricken ship in the early hours of 9 May and passed a tow. For twenty-nine hours Sheffield, with her White Ensign still flying, was towed much of the time in daylight and within range of enemy aircraft until, as the wind increased to gale force, the towed ship heeled over and, at 7a.m. on 10 May, sank. Yarmouth headed back towards the Task Force. A week of storms followed and Yarmouth, the oldest escort ship in the Tank Force, rode out the weather with no damage despite her twenty-two years. On 19 May, the amphibious landing group arrived, joined the Task Force and headed West to the Falkland Sound. The amphibious landing took place in the early hours of the 21 May in San Carlos Water. Yarmouth’s task was to provide anti-submarine and anti-air Protection. Throughout the bright, sunny day she patrolled in Falkland Sound as enemy Mirage and A4 aircraft attacked both the landing area in San Carlos Water and the ships protecting the landing force. During one such attack in the afternoon, Ardent was hit and set on fire. Shortly afterwards a wave of Skyhawks again attacked Ardent which immediately began to list and to burn more fiercely. Yarmouth went to her aid and took off the ship's company as the fire spread towards the magazines. She then headed for San Carlos Water where she transferred Ardent’s crew to the Canberra before resuming her patrol in the Sound. The next ten days saw Yarmouth in San Carlos Water by day and leaving at dusk each night to carry out a variety of tasks including shore bombardment, anti-submarine patrols, covert operations and escorting merchant ships to and from the landing area. Each morning at dawn she returned to San Carlos Water to provide anti-aircraft protection for the landing ships. This was a particularly testing, time for the two hundred and fifty men onboard as they spent the daylight hours at Action Stations, subject to frequent air attacks, and with little time for sleep at night. Many ships present at that time suffered damage from air attacks and only the concentrated fire of Yarmouth’s 4.5, inch and 20mm. guns, Seacat missile and small arms kept the enemy aircraft at bay. After this testing period, Yarmouth sailed East to the repair area and spent two days with a repair ship where she carried out essential maintenance before rejoining the Task Force. Most nights during the following week 6-13 June the ship was involved in bombarding enemy positions to the West of Port Stanley with her 4.5 inch guns. During the conflict she fired well over a thousand rounds, some thirty-two tons of shells. The ship’s machinery performed marvellously as Yarmouth dashed nearly two hundred miles each way to and from the Islands at high speed to carry out the bombardment by night and arrive back with the battle group to replenish fuel and ammunition before heading inshore once more. On one such mission the ship encountered a small coaster packed with Gurkhas and essential supplies, immobilised by a rope around her propeller and prey for enemy aircraft. Yarmouth’s diving team freed her screws, and the vessel was able to proceed to Goose Green. On another night the frigate stood by and provided firefighting and medical aid to the Glamorgan when the destroyer was hit by an Exocet missile fired from shore near Port Stanley. After Port Stanley had been re-taken, Yarmouth was despatched to South Georgia, an island of glaciers and icebergs, and from there to Southern Thule to join Endurance and enforce the surrender of the Argentine contingent there. She later took the prisoners of war from South Georgia to Port Stanley. On 7 July, after several more days patrolling with the Battle Group, she began her eight thousand mile voyage home in company with Exeter and Cardiff. Apart from invincible she was the last of the original Task Force to leave the area.
Lot 397
The outstanding Great War ‘River Tigris’ operations D.S.O. group of four awarded to Lieutenant-Commander Mark Singleton, Royal Navy, who accomplished the remarkable feat in his small armed tug of bringing to surrender a body of about 11 officers and 250 Turkish troops; indeed it was the opinion of the official historian of the campaign that greater daring than Singleton’s cool audacity could hardly be imagined Distinguished Service Order, G.V.R., silver-gilt and enamels, with integral top riband bar; 1914-15 Star (Lieut. M. Singleton. R.N.); British War and Victory Medals, with M.I.D. oak leaves (Lt. Commr. M. Singleton. R.N.) contained in an old leather case, good very fine (4) £4,000-£5,000 --- Importation Duty This lot is subject to importation duty of 5% on the hammer price unless exported outside the UK --- --- Provenance: Dix Noonan Webb, September 2016. D.S.O. London Gazette 13 September 1915: ‘For his services during the advance from Qurnah and capture of Amara at the beginning of June 1915. Lieutenant Singleton was in command of the armed launch Shaitan, and displayed great skill and energy in pursuit of the enemy gunboat Mamariss and other craft. He went ahead of the main force through Amara in a gallant manner, and performed the remarkable feat in his small armed tug of bringing to surrender a body of about 11 officers and 250 Turkish troops, whom he had intercepted, and causing a large number to retire, thus largely contributing to the surrender of the town.’ M.I.D. London Gazette 21 January 1916; 5 April 1916; and 21 September 1917. Mark Singleton was born in Theale Wedmore, Somerset, on 24 June 1887, and entered the Royal Navy as a cadet in Britannia in May 1902. Advanced to Sub. Lieutenant in May 1907 and to Lieutenant in December 1909, he was serving in the base ship H.M.S. Espiegle in the Persian Gulf on the outbreak of hostilities in August 1914, and was subsequently employed with naval units co-operating with military forces in Mesopotamia. By May 1915 the Turks had been driven from the lower reaches of the Tigris, and in order that the Navy might render assistance to the Army in following them up, a number of flat bottomed tug boats were commandeered and commissioned as H.M. Ships for use on the river. One of these, the Shaitan, was placed under Singleton’s command. Crewed by eight men, his boat was armed with a 12-pounder quick-firing gun in her bows and a smaller gun aft. Advancing from Qurnah in June, the Shaitan, due to Singleton’s skilful boat handling, got ahead of the other small craft, and reached a point three miles south of Amara on her own. As she entered the reach of the river immediately below the town, which was situated on the east bank, large numbers of enemy troops were seen crossing the river to the western bank by a bridge of boats and getting into a barge secured to the Turkish gun boat Mamarris. The bridge of boats was then opened, the enemy gun boat clearly going to depart up river. Singleton immediately opened fire with the 12-pounder, causing the troops to abandon the barge for a safer spot on the west bank. Shaitan then steamed on and as she passed through the bridge of boats found the town was occupied in force. Half a battalion of Turks, moving through the streets to the river front, smartly retreated. Around the next bend on both banks yet more troops were retiring from the Shaitan which was in effect surrounded. The Turks held their fire for fear of drawing the attention of Shaitan’s 12-pounder, and she continued upstream for about half a mile, whence Singleton called on a party of about two hundred Turks with six officers to surrender. The Bluejacket’s disarmed them and, taking their weapons on board, compelled them to march down river abreast of the tug. On the way back to Amara, Singleton took more prisoners, who emerged from trees and threw down their arms; and, unattended, the sorry Turkish party obediently walked to the now deserted town where they sat down by a coffee shop and awaited the arrival of British troops. Thus Singleton, at the expenditure of only two or three shells, captured 250 Turkish troops and 11 officers and contributed largely to the evacuation of Amara by 2000 troops. It was the opinion of the official historian of the campaign that greater daring than the Singleton’s cool audacity could hardly be imagined. He was awarded the D.S.O. Having taken part in further advances up river over the course of the next three months, and been mentioned in despatches, Singleton, due to heavy casualties and sickness, became the Senior Naval Officer on the Tigris although only 26 years of age. And in February 1916, he was given command of the 98-ton gunboat Stonefly, in which capacity he was twice mentioned in despatches for further actions on the Tigris and the Euphrates. Returning home in January 1918, he was invested with his D.S.O. at Buckingham Palace that March and saw out the War with the Harwich Force in command of the destroyer Patrician. Placed on the Retired List on account of ill-health in December 1923, the gallant Singleton died on 21 December 1952. Sold with copied research, including record of service and extracts from Deeds that Thrill the Empire, and Tigris Gunboats by Vice-Admiral Wilfrid Nunn.
Lot 478
The rare Second War crossing of the Elbe M.M. awarded to Marine D. Towler, 45 Commando, Royal Marines. As a sniper at the crossing of the Rhine in March 1945, ‘he kept the Huns jittery near the factory area in Wesel’, where he ‘killed at least ten and wounded others in thirty-six hours fighting’; as his Troop’s Bren gunner at the Elbe crossing in April 1945, he faced off two enemy attacks: ‘two dead Germans were within 10 yards of his gun and eleven others dead or wounded in the immediate vicinity’ Military Medal, G.VI.R. (EX.4188 Mne. D. Towler. R. Marines.) in its named card box of issue, extremely fine £1,800-£2,200 --- Importation Duty This lot is subject to importation duty of 5% on the hammer price unless exported outside the UK --- --- M.M. London Gazette 7 August 1945: ‘For distinguished service whilst attached to the Allied Armies in the invasion operations in North-West Europe.’ The original recommendation states: ‘On the night of the Elbe crossing Mne. Towler was a Bren Gunner in D Troop 45 RM Commando. His Troop became involved in confused street fighting in the dark on its way to its objective. Mne. Towler was ordered to take up a position to cover a flank whilst his Troop pushed on. He selected a position in a house and engaged the enemy immediately. A section attack was put in against his house by the enemy. This was beaten off by steady and accurate shooting. As his ammunition was getting low, Mne. Towler sent his No. 2 of the gun to get more. During his absence another attempt was made by the enemy to dislodge Mne. Towler. Again this was beaten off. When his No. 2 returned together with a sub section to assist, there was only one magazine left containing a few rounds. Two dead Germans were within ten yards of the gun and eleven other dead or wounded in the immediate vicinity. Although Mne. Towler was not actually wounded he was considerably grazed by brick splinters and stones raised by the 2cm. flak guns which were used against his position. Mne. Towler's tenacity and determination was largely responsible for this troop being able to push on, without undue interference, to their objective.’ Douglas Towler was an employee of the Northern Co-operative Dairies in Aberdeen prior to joining the Royal Marines. Having then volunteered for special service, he joined 45 R.M. Commando on its formation in August 1943. As part of the 1st Special Service Brigade under Brigadier Lord Lovat, ‘45’ took heavy casualties on coming ashore on Gold Beach on D-Day, suffering a loss of three officers and 17 men killed or wounded, and one officer and 28 men missing. Those grim statistics were depressingly enlarged upon in the coming weeks of the Normandy campaign, up until ‘45’s’ withdrawal to the U.K. for a ‘refit’ in September 1944 Now part of First Commando Brigade, ‘45’ returned to an operational footing in Holland in January 1945, and was quickly in action at the battle of Montforterbeek, where Lance-Corporal Eric Harden of the R.A.M.C., attached to the Commando, gained a posthumous V.C. A costly attack on Belle Isle on the Mass having followed, among other actions, Towler and his comrades were next deployed to the crossing of the Rhine on the night of 23-24 March 1945. Their objective was Wesel, where Towler received a shrapnel wound but remained on duty. In fact, as evidenced by an accompanying local newspaper report, he took a heavy toll on the enemy: ‘Marine Dougles Towler of 12 Hayton Road, Aberdeen, a former employee of the Northern Co-operative Dairies, was the Commando man who kept the Huns jittery near a factory area in Wesel after the Rhine crossing. With the Jerries sometimes only twenty-five yards away, Towler, a sniper, kept picking them off and killed at least ten and wounded others in thirty-six hours’ fighting. “As the Huns were so near,” he said, “I kept changing my position in case they started mortaring me. Every time one showed himself, I let go at him. I was in the factory area on one side of the railway and the Germans on the other side of the railway lines. On one occasion I noticed they were forming up for a counter-attack, so I covered a little gap in the hedge. Sure enough, the Jerries kept passing by, and I just shot them down. The counter-attack never materialised. A German twelve-man patrol once approached my position, so I opened fire, and the patrol disappeared. As the enemy were so near the only answer was sniping to make them keep their heads down and keep them jittery. I saw many of them when I fired just cut their equipment off and make a bolt for it.” Towler is regarded among his Commando officers as a man who always keeps his finger on the trigger.’ Indeed, Towler certainly lived up to his reputation in Operation ‘Enterprise’, the Elbe crossing on the night of 28-29 April 1945, when ‘45’ were embarked in Buffaloes before advancing on the town of Lauenberg. Here, as cited above, he performed most gallant work in facing off two spirited German attacks with his Bren gun, thereby adding to his growing tally of enemy dead. In his book Commando Men, Bryan Samain relates the story of how Towler’s ‘B’ Troop carried out an attack on an enemy ack-ack battery the following day. In it he refers to ‘a young Scots Bren-gunner, Marine Norman Towler’. Given the latter’s fearless conduct on that occasion, it seems more likely it was in fact Douglas Towler: ‘Moving off under the command of John Day, the Troop closed to within one hundred yards of the battery. At this stage the Germans suddenly opened up, spraying the road and surrounding buildings with a vicious fusillade of 37-millimetre shells. Baker Troop immediately scattered for cover, and the whole street became alive with orange-coloured flashes as the shells smacked and roared into the already shattered fabric of blasted buildings. The men of Baker Troop crouched low behind what cover they could find, awaiting the order to move forward and assault the battery. Meanwhile, as John Day started to shout preliminary orders above the roar of gunfire, a young Scots Bren-gunner, Marine Norman Towler, got to his feet and coolly returned the enemy fire from an exposed position. For some unknown reason the Germans suddenly stopped firing. Perhaps they were too flabbergasted by Towler’s action to continue: but whatever the reason, it made them lose the day, for Baker Troop seized the initiative and rushed the battery. Within minutes the guns had all been overrun, and something like fifty prisoners rounded up, including some German W.A.A.F.s, who emerged coyly from a series of dugouts.’ Towler was discharged from the Commandos in November 1945, when he was described as ‘an exceptionally fine, upstanding type of soldier.’ Sold with a quantity of original documents, including the recipient’s Buckingham Palace forwarding letter for his M.M., his C.O.’s testimonial and character reference, and a letter to his wife regarding his shrapnel wounds in March 1945, together with some wartime newspaper cuttings and a copy of Bryan Samain’s book Commando Men.
Lot 445
The unique Second War battle of the River Plate B.E.M. group of six awarded to Flight Sergeant B. J. Brooks, Royal Air Force, a member of H.M.S. Ajax’s aircraft catapult team, he helped launch her Fairey Seafox into action, the first occasion on which a Fleet Air Arm aircraft was employed to spot for ships’ guns in a sea battle British Empire Medal, (Military) G.VI.R., 1st issue (561442 Cpl. Bernard James Brooks, R.A.F.); 1939-45 Star; Atlantic Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, with M.I.D. oak leaf; Royal Air Force L.S. & G.C., G.VI.R., 1st issue (561442 F/Sjt. B. J. Brooks. R.A.F.) mounted as worn, good very fine (6) £1,400-£1,800 --- Importation Duty This lot is subject to importation duty of 5% on the hammer price unless exported outside the UK --- --- Provenance: J. J. Atkinson Collection, Noble’s Australia, April 2005. B.E.M. London Gazette 27 February 1940: ‘For services in H.M.S. Ajax at the Battle of the River Plate.’ The original recommendation states: ‘Corporal Brooks, a fitter lent for duty with the Fleet Air Arm, who has been serving in H.M.S. Ajax, carried out most efficient work in catapulting the aircraft during the Battle of the Plate. He also showed initiative and did valuable work with the Upper Deck Repair Party. He has been recommended for a distinction, both by the captain of his ship and by Rear-Admiral Harwood.’ Related official correspondence adds: ‘In the Battle of the River Plate a Royal Air Force Corporal, Bernard J. Brooks, No. 561442, seems to the Admiralty to have behaved in a manner which, had he had the luck to be a sailor, would have earned him the Distinguished Service Medal … There is no Navy, Army or Air Force distinction which the airman can be awarded for this action, and Sir Arthur Street and Air Marshal Portal would therefore be grateful if you could secure the consent of the Selection Committee to the award of the Military Medal of the Order of the British Empire for Meritorious Service. The King is holding an investiture on Friday for the naval personnel concerned and it is desirable that Brooks should be included.’ Bernard James Brooks was also mentioned in despatches for his ‘bravery and resource during operations in Madagascar’ (London Gazette 23 February 1943, refers). On that occasion, he was borne on the books of H.M.S. Kipanga, the naval base in Kenya, from which he was employed in support of Operation ‘Streamline Jane’, the operations undertaken at Majunga and Tanarive. Of earlier events at the battle of the River Plate in December 1939, Ajax’s role is well-known. With her consorts Exeter and Achilles, she fought a determined running battle with the Graf Spee, pursuing the enemy pocket battleship all the way to Montevideo. And crucial to the accuracy and effectiveness of Ajax’s gunfire - and that of her consorts - was the deployment one of her Fairey Seafox aircraft, both of Exeter’s Walrus aircraft having been put out of action by one Graf Spee’s 11-inch shells. Ajax too came under heavy fire, sustaining extensive damage and resultant casualties, and Brooks’s crucial role in launching the Fairey Seafox by catapult may well have been enacted under just such fire. But all went well, Lieutenant E. D. G. Lewin, R.N., the pilot, and Lieutenant R. E. N. Keraney, R.N., the observer, afterwards carrying out valuable ‘spotter’ duties. As it transpired, Brooks was to launch them into action on further occasions as the drama unfolded, including on the 17 December 1939, when they were able to signal that Graf Spee had been scuttled. As cited above, Brooks also undertook valuable work with the Upper Deck Repair Party. Such work was indeed vital, in case Graf Spee emerged for a second duel. Sold with copied research, including official correspondence relating to the award of his B.E.M.
Lot 468
The extremely rare Second War ‘V.C. action’ honorary D.S.M. group of eight awarded to Lieutenant E. Obelkevitch, United States Navy, who was decorated for his gallantry in the famous assault on Oran harbour in November 1942, when he saved numerous lives aboard the stricken ex-U.S. cutter H.M.S. Hartland Distinguished Service Medal, G.VI.R. (Mr. E. Obelkevitch. Gnr. U.S.N. H.M.S. Hartland.) impressed naming; U.S.A., Medal for Military Merit; U.S.A., Purple Heart; U.S.A., Navy Long Service; U.S.A., Defense; U.S.A., Campaign; U.S.A., European, African and Middle East Campaign,with three bronze stars; U.S.A., War Medal, these seven American awards added for display purposes and mounted for display in precedence to the D.S.M., extremely fine (8) £4,000-£5,000 --- Importation Duty This lot is subject to importation duty of 5% on the hammer price unless exported outside the UK --- --- Just 17 honorary awards of the D.S.M. were made to the United States Navy in the Second World War. Such awards were not gazetted but the original recommendation signed by Admiral of the Fleet ‘ABC’ Cunningham at Algiers on 13 October 1943 states: ‘On 8 November 1942, H.M.S. Hartland, flying the British and United States Ensigns, entered Oran under heavy fire in an attempt to prevent the sabotage of the port. Gunner Obelkevitch was leader of a boarding party. When this unit was wiped out by the explosion of a shell, he attempted to organise a hopeless attempt to extinguish the fires. His courage and initiative were an outstanding example and inspiration. He was ultimately instrumental in saving many lives of wounded men and remained on board after the deck was red hot and the ship in danger of blowing up at any moment.’ Edward Obelkevitch was born in Dickson City, Pennsylvania on 13 August 1900, and joined the United States Navy in December 1918. A Gunner (T.) by the time of the Second World War, he was appointed to command a boarding party from the ex-U.S. cutter H.M.S. Hartland in the famous attack on the port of Oran on 8 November 1942, for which action Captain F. T. Peters, D.S.O., D.S.C., R.N., overall commander of the operation in H.M.S. Walney, was awarded the Victoria Cross. Described as a ‘miniature Zeebrugge’ the assault on Oran resulted in terrible casualties, both Hartland and Walney being sunk by a torrent of point-blank fire. In his book The Turn of the Road, ex-naval officer Sir Lewis Ritchie describes the unfolding scene of carnage as Hartland came under withering fire, and pays tribute to Obelkevitch’s gallant deeds: ‘In the meanwhile, Hartland had been picked up in the searchlight and came under a devastating fire from the shore battery. The entire guns’ crews were wiped out and a steam pipe was severed, drowning everything in the noise of escaping steam. The Captain was temporarily blinded by a splinter and wounded in the leg, and before he could recover, Hartland struck the breakwater. Regaining the sight of one eye, he put the engines astern and manoeuvred his ship through the entrance, heading her for the appointed objective; this brought Hartland under point-blank fire from a French destroyer. Shells burst in the motor-room and all power failed; they also burst in the spaces where troops were waiting assembled to land, transforming them into a shambles. With fires raging fore and aft, Hartland’s way carried her alongside the mole. Lieutenant-Commander Dickey, U.S.N., calling on his men to follow him, leaped ashore to attempt to seize a trawler alongside. Only one unwounded man was able to follow him. The dead lay heaped so thick on the upper deck that the wounded could not get at the hoses to fight the fires. The First Lieutenant, Lieutenant V. A. Hickson, R.N., made a gallant effort to pass a wire ashore, but there was no one left to man it effectively. The wind now caught the ship and she began to drift helplessly out into the harbour. Lieutenant Hickson blundered forward through a tempest of machine-gun bullets and let go the anchor. The flames, funnel-high, lit the White Ensign and “Old Glory” at peak and masthead above the careless sprawling dead, and tinged the smoke rolling away to leeward across the quiet waters of the harbour with a fierce and bloody glare. As if appalled at the sight of this blazing sacrifice, the French at last ceased fire. Then, and not until then, Lieutenant-Commander Billot gave the order to abandon ship. The deck was red hot: blinded with blood and twice more wounded, he clung to the rail, summoning strength to leave the ship. Lieutenant E. G. Lawrence, R.N.V.R., and Gunner Obelkevitch, U.S.N., who had fought the fires almost single-handed to the last, swam ashore, seized the French trawler’s dingy by force, paddled her with floorboards back to where their Captain clung to a scramble net. They hauled him into the boat and he urged them in a whisper to pull for the open sea and freedom. He was fainting from his wounds; they had only the floorboards with which to row and were covered in every direction by rifles and machine-guns … they were taken prisoner as they landed.’ Obelkevitch was held by the Vichy-French until the advancing Allies liberated him a few days later, following which he was promoted to Chief Gunner and awarded the British D.S.M. A qualified diver, he was subsequently commissioned Lieutenant and served out the war as a salvage officer. Obelkevitch retired from the U.S. Navy in April 1949, and died in California in March 1971. Sold with extensive copied research.
Lot 352
The rare Victorian campaign group of four awarded to Captain C. K. Purvis, Royal Navy, who commanded an ‘armoured train’ in the action at Kassassin, in which he was severely wounded Canada General Service 1866-70, 1 clasp, Fenian Raid 1866 (Midshipman C. K. Purvis, H.M.S. Fawn) officially impressed naming; Egypt and Sudan 1882-89, dated reverse, 1 clasp, Alexandria 11th July (Lieut. C. K. Purvis, R.N. H.M.S. “Penelope”); Ottoman Empire, Order of Osmanieh, 4th Class breast badge, silver-gilt, gold and enamels; Khedive’s Star, dated 1882, mounted as worn, nearly extremely fine (4) £3,000-£4,000 --- Importation Duty This lot is subject to importation duty of 5% on the hammer price unless exported outside the UK --- --- Provenance: Douglas-Morris Collection, Dix Noonan Webb, October 1996; Dix Noonan Webb, June 2006. Only seven ‘Fenian Raid 1866’ clasps to H.M.S. Fawn. Charles Kennedy Purvis was born on 26 September 1849 and entered the Royal Navy as a Cadet in Britannia in March 1863. Appointed a Midshipman in H.M.S. Fawn in December 1864, he remained likewise employed for two years and witnessed active service off Canada in the Fenian operations in 1866. He subsequently gained advancement to Sub. Lieutenant in the Royal Oak in June 1869 and to Lieutenant in the Topaze in September 1873, followed by further seagoing appointments in the Hornet in 1875-80 and the Penelope in 1881-82. And it was from the latter ship that he was landed for special service in the Egypt operations, with command of one of the two ‘armoured trains’ deployed in the Egyptian war zone. In reality these were no more than an armed truck, one being manned by seamen and the other by marines. The bluejackets’ four-wheeled gun-truck, commanded by Lieutenant Purvis, had steel-plated sides that were ‘fairly bullet proof’, with sandbags hung around the outside for good measure. An awning was added over the truck’s open top and it was armed with a 40-pounder gun. A separate box-car, similarly fitted with steel side plates and sandbags, had two compartments for the 230 shells - mostly shrapnel - and charges, entrance to each magazine being only from the top. Since no steam engines could be obtained, Purvis’s naval train was pulled from Ismailia to Nefiche by 16 horses, four abreast, on 26 August 1882. On 1 September, Purvis and his train moved up to Kassassin where, on the 9th, he and his 20-strong party of bluejackets saw action in the defence of the camp against an Egyptian reconnaissance party. Having been working the train on the line a little beyond the camp, the enemy turned their guns on it. Purvis and his 2nd in Command, Sub. Lieutenant James Erskine, dismounted to take some observations. They were standing close together when a shell burst near them, a small portion of which struck Purvis on the foot, tearing a portion of it off, and necessitating immediate amputation at the ankle joint. Subsequently, to rub salt into his wounds, while on his way to Ismailia to be placed aboard the Orontes, he was struck by a tow rope which brought on inflammation and made a second amputation above the ankle imperative. On a somewhat happier note, on Christmas Eve 1882, Purvis was one of two officers in the R.N. Hospital Haslar to receive their Egypt campaign medals from the hand of Queen Victoria. Moreover, he received special promotion to Commander and was mentioned in General Sir Garnet Wolseley’s despatch in the following terms: ‘In command of detachment working 40-pounder on truck; regrets very much the loss of his valuable services.’ Discharged from Haslar in January 1883, Purvis joined the Coast Guard but he returned to sea with command of the Flora in 1887-89. His final appointment was in the harbour based Audacious and he was placed on the Retired List as a Captain in October 1896. He died on 2 June 1916.
Lot 389
The Great War D.S.C. and Bar, A.F.C. group of six awarded to Group Captain V. Gaskell-Blackburn, Royal Air Force, late Royal Naval Air Service, who, having participated in the first ever carrier-borne air strike in 1914, spotted for the Severn and Mersey against the Konigsberg in East Africa and was twice decorated for his gallant deeds in the Kut-el-Amara and Ctesiphon operations of 1915-16 Distinguished Service Cross, G.V.R., with Second Award Bar, hallmarked London 1915; Air Force Cross, G.V.R.; 1914-15 Star (Flt. Lieut. V. G. Blackburn, D.S.C. R.N.A.S.); British War and Victory Medals (Lt. Col. V. Gaskell-Blackburn, R.A.F.); Coronation 1937, mounted as worn, generally good very fine (6) £12,000-£16,000 --- Importation Duty This lot is subject to importation duty of 5% on the hammer price unless exported outside the UK --- --- Provenance: Dix Noonan Webb, December 2007. Vivian Gaskell-Blackburn was born in Leeds in 1892 and, shortly after leaving Uppingham, learnt to fly a Bristol biplane at Brooklands, taking his Pilot’s Certificate in September 1913 (No. 617). Commissioned in the Royal Naval Air Service on the outbreak of hostilities, he was quickly in action, piloting an Admiralty Type 74 “Folder” Seaplane in the famous Cuxhaven Raid on Christmas Day 1914, the world’s first carrier air strike. The operation, in essence an air reconnaissance of the Heligoland Bight, including Cuxhaven, was made by nine seaplanes, the pilots and their machines being conveyed to a point about 12 miles to the north of Heligoland before being lowered onto the water from the seaplane carriers Empress, Engadine and Riviera - the Arethusa and Undaunted, and eight destroyers, acted as escort. Seven of the seaplanes rose without any difficulty into the air, but the remaining two machines refused to become airborne with their heavy weight of bombs and had to be swung back on board their parent carriers. The former, with their pilots huddling deeper into their draughty cockpits in the clear, icy air, set course for Cuxhaven. Gaskell-Blackburn’s subsequent experiences, and those of his Observer, C.P.O. Mechanic J. W. Bell, are described in R. D. Layman’s definitive history, The Cuxhaven Raid: ‘After coming under fire from trawlers and destroyers, Gaskell-Blackburn ran into fog that ‘rendered navigation extremely difficult’, so much so that he was unable to tell where he crossed the coastline ... To the north-west he noted a number of destroyers steaming seaward and what appeared to be a British seaplane heading the same direction. Also to the north, Bell observed, were three battlecruisers and about 15 other vessels, all making heavy smoke ... The first three cruisers ‘opened an extremely hot anti-aircraft fire,’ as did the battlecruisers as the Short flew between the two groups of ships. The German fire was accurate for height, but the shells burst behind the planes. He reported, ‘I came then to the outskirts of Wilhelmshaven and was again subjected to an extremely hot anti-aircraft fire ... the most accurate and fiercest fire during the trip.’ A small-calibre shell or a large metal fragment from a heavier missile tore through a main float and damaged a starboard under-carriage strut, damage Bell could see by peering from his cockpit. Gaskell-Blackburn aimed two bombs at what he believed was the land battery responsible; it did not fire again, and my observer reported that he thought we did damage it’ ... With fuel running short, Gaskell-Blackburn decided not to take the return route via Wangeroog and the other Frisian islands, but headed west-north-west over the mainland. The fog closed in again during this inland flight, forcing him to keep to 700 feet. Every time the Short emerged into a momentarily clear patch of sky, he reported, it was fired at by anti-aircraft guns or rifles ... Gaskell-Blackburn reached the coast near Baltrum Island, Norderney’s neighbour to the east, emerging into clear sky, quickly recognising Norderney and heading north to seek the carriers ... ’ Layman next describes Gaskell-Blackburn’s ditching and rescue by the submarine E. 11, the latter already having picked up another pilot: ‘About ten minutes later E. 11’s lookouts spotted an airship to starboard - in fact the Zeppelin L5 commanded by Kapitanleutnant Klaus Hirsch - a complication compounded by the additional arrival of two more R.N.A.S. seaplanes, both dangerously short of fuel (No. 814 crewed by Gaskell-Blackburn and Bell, and No. 815 by Oliver and Bell). Both swept down and landed alongside the submarine, just as Nasmith spotted another looming danger in the form of a periscope (it was, in fact, the British submarine D. 6, hastening to the scene to offer assistance) ... Nasmith, tackling the problem of rescuing four airmen in the face of what appeared to be imminent underwater and aerial attack, acted with the cool-headed precision that would win him fame later in the war. Casting off the tow-line to [Miley’s] No. 120, he manoeuvred E. 11 so close to No. 815 that Oliver and Bell were able to step aboard her, then hailed Gaskell-Blackburn and Bell to swim to the submarine. Doffing their flying clothes and the impedimenta that Malone had insisted upon, they dived from their tilting plane and were hauled, dripping, aboard E. 11. Although the airship was now closing fast, Nasmith was obedient to the orders to destroy abandoned aircraft if possible. Since E. 11, like most British submarines in 1914, as yet lacked a deck gun, he ordered a machine-gun up from below and began to pepper the seaplanes’ floats with it. Oliver joined in with his pistol. Before this fire could have any effect, the aerial menace got too close for comfort, and Nasmith ordered a crash dive. With L5 nearly overhead, he waved his cap defiantly as he made for the conning tower hatch. It has often been claimed that the gesture confused the airshipmen into thinking E. 11 was a U-boat capturing enemy planes and caused them to delay dropping bombs. Gaskell-Blackburn thought so at the time. But there is nothing in German accounts to suggest the gesture was even seen, and Hirsch’s report makes it clear he was quite aware that the submarine was an enemy craft. He saw the rescue of the airmen clearly just before he sent two bombs crashing down. Their explosions shook both E. 11 and D. 6, although the former had time to dive to 40 feet before they went off and the latter was 60 feet down. The men on each submarine thought their boat was the target, but Hirsch’s account indicates he was aiming simply in the general vicinity of the seaplanes and the submerged E. 11, hoping any or all might be damaged. Observing no effect from the bombs, he headed seaward toward the Harwich Force. Nasmith meanwhile took E. 11 down to rest on the seabed, where at 20 fathoms the submariners shared their Christmas turkey and plum pudding with their five unusual guests.’ Gaskell-Blackburn was mentioned in despatches (London Gazette 19 February 1915 refers), and his Observer, C.P.O. Mechanic J. W. Bell, was awarded the D.S.M. In the operations against the Königsberg in East Africa in July 1915, while piloting a Henri Farman biplane out of Mafia Island, Gaskell-Blackburn was commended for his work in spotting the fall of shot from H.M’s monitors Severn and Mersey. And in the following month, on the 15th, he carried out a reconnaissance with Flight Commander Cull, D.S.O., this time in a newly delivered Cauldron G. III aircraft, in order to assess the damage caused the enemy cruiser; an excellent photograph of Gaskell-Blackburn at the helm of his Henri Farman, taken on Mafia Island in July 1915, is in the collection of the Fleet Air Ar...
Lot 386
The Great War group of three awarded to Petty Officer G. Baxter, Royal Navy, attached Armoured Trains 1914 Star, with clasp (206500 G. Baxter, P.O. Armd. Trains.); British War and Victory Medals, with M.I.D. oak leaves (206500 G. Baxter. P.O. R.N.) the last with very faintly impressed naming, good very fine (3) £400-£500 --- Importation Duty This lot is subject to importation duty of 5% on the hammer price unless exported outside the UK --- --- Provenance: Spink, April 1999. M.I.D. London Gazette 17 April 1918. 77 1914 Stars issued for service with Armoured Trains. George Baxter was born in Bristol, Gloucestershire on 4 March 1883, and entered the Royal Navy as a Boy 2nd Class in September 1899. Having then witnessed extensive seagoing experience in the interim, he was discharged as a Petty Officer ‘time expired’ in March 1913. Recalled in September 1914, Baxter was quickly re-employed in land operations in armoured trains and posted to H.M.A.T. Churchill. Three heavy armoured trains were built in Antwerp in September-October 1914, mounted with British naval guns, and placed under the overall command of Commander A. S. Littlejohns, R.N., with Lieutenant-Commander P. H. Riddler, R.N., as his second-in-command. Known from 9 November as H.M. Armoured Trains Jellicoe (Commander Littlejohns) with three 4.7-inch guns, H.M.A.T. Déguise (Belgian Captain Servais) with three 4.7-inch guns, and H.M.A.T. Churchill (Lieutenant-Commander Riddler) with two 6-inch guns, these three armoured trains fought around Antwerp until 7 October, then retreated via Ghent, in support of General Rawlinson’s advance to Ypres. H.M.A.T. Churchill became operational at Oostende after the retreat from Antwerp and in December went into action in the area around Oostkerke against German batteries to the south of Dixmude. From the end of December 1914 to March 1915, the three trains were continuously in action, sometimes in support of an assault (Jellicoe at la Bassée on 10 January), but in particular in counter-battery or bombardment missions in action to neutralise trench lines. Hence Jellicoe in action at Beuvry 20-24 January, Churchill at Oosterkerke on 28-29 January, and against an observation post at Ennetieres on 11 February, Déguise at Beuvry firing on a rail junction on the 15th, among other targets, and Churchill against a battery at Fleur d’Ecosse on 3 March. The guns of the trains were extremely effective, notably against troop concentrations. On 18 February, H.M.A.T. Déguise fired seven shells at German troops to the South-West of La Bassée. These actions brought the trains within range of the German artillery. The Germans scored hits, but the armour protection and swift manoeuvring of the trains normally protected the crews, except on 25 January when Jellicoe was hit, wounding two men and killing the Belgian engine driver. Between 10 and 13 March, the three trains supported the action at Neuve Chapelle. On that occasion, Field Marshal Sir John French paid a surprise visit to H.M.A.T. Churchill, which was the command train for Commander Littlejohns. Towards the end of March 1915, the three trains were withdrawn from service. Baxter’s subsequent appointments included the minesweeping sloop Alyssum from December 1915 to February 1916, the Queenstown depot Colleen and the Grimsby base Pekin, and he was demobilised in March 1919.
Lot 402
The unique Great War D.S.M. group of eight awarded to Lieutenant C. A. Pearce, Royal Marines, for service in Serbia at the defence of Belgrade and subsequent retreat of the Serbian Army in 1915 Distinguished Service Medal, G.V.R. (9294 Sergt. C. A. Pearce, R.M.A. Service in Serbia.); 1914-15 Star (R.M.A. 9294 Sgt. C. A. Pearce.); British War and Victory Medals (Lieut. C. A. Pearce. R.M.); Royal Navy L.S. & G.C., G.V.R., 1st issue (9294 C. A. Pearce, Sergeant, R.M.A.); Serbia, Oblitch Bravery Medal, gilt; Serbia, Medal for Military Virtue, gilt, incorrect ribbon; Belgium, Croix de Guerre, ‘AI’ cypher, mounted court style as worn, very fine and better (8) £3,000-£4,000 --- Importation Duty This lot is subject to importation duty of 5% on the hammer price unless exported outside the UK --- --- Provenance: Dix Noonan Webb, April 1994 and May 2011. D.S.M. London Gazette 21 January 1916. The recommendation states: ‘H.M.S. Egmont. Service in Siberia 5 to 8 October 1915. For services during the battle of Lisbona. Was the senior N.C.O. in charge of the two British 4.7in guns on Velike Vrachar which were in action against an overwhelming fire from the enemy’s artillery during the days and nights of the 5, 6, 7 and 8 October, until both guns were finally crushed and destroyed. They were fought to the last with superb bravery and devotion to duty.’ Charles Arthur Pearce was born on 22 May 1882 and enlisted as a Private in the Royal Marines on 23 January 1901. Ranked as a Gunner in November 1901, he became a Sergeant in September 1913 and Colour Sergeant in February 1916. During the early months of the war he served aboard H.M.S. Audacious; in February 1915 he was posted to the British Naval Mission in Serbia. The purpose of the Naval mission to Serbia was to prevent the Austrian monitors and patrol launches from using the Danube. As the Serbians had no floating forces and were weak in artillery, the Austrian monitors were free to bombard Serbian positions at will. Directly after the re-occupation of Belgrade by the Serbians in December 1914, a party of R M.L.I. and seamen were sent hither from Malta. This mission was strengthened in February 1915 by the arrival from England of eight 4.7-in, guns, accompanied by eight R.M.A. ratings under Sergeant C. A. Pearce. The eight 4.7's were organised in four batteries of two guns each, the R.M.A. providing the higher numbers of No. 1 Battery, and seamen those of the remainder. The 4.7 batteries were widely separated to command the rivers, only the R.M.A. No. 1 Battery, under Sergeant Pearce, being close to Belgrade itself, its position being on Veliki Vrachar Hill, on the south-east of the city. By 1 October the Austro-Germans had effected a great concentration opposite Belgrade, and on the morning of the 3rd a terrible bombardment was opened. It was estimated that in the first 24 hours some forty-eight thousand shells fell upon the doomed city. No one had better cause to appreciate the magnitude of Belgrade's bombardment than the occupants of No. 1 Battery on Veliki Vrachar Hill. Commanded by a Serbian artillery officer, with another Serbian officer as second-in command, the battery was composed of Sergeant Pearce with a Corporal and four gunners of the Royal Marines, and a small crew of Serbian soldiers to assist with the heavy work. Of the latter Sergeant Pearce said he could not speak too highly. For the first four days the battery reserved its fire, waiting for the first sign of the enemy to attempt to cross the river. On the 7th they could wait no longer, but opened fire on the batteries along the river front, and for the rest of that day carried on an engagement with no less than 24 Austrian guns. The inevitable happened. As soon as the battery opened fire the aeroplanes corrected the range, and the enemy shells, instead of passing overhead, began to fall upon it. They managed to keep up the unequal contest all day long, and most of the next day, until those two guns were all that was left of Belgrade's defences, and nearly the whole of the Austrian artillery was concentrated upon them. Inevitably, on the night of the 7th, the No. 1 gun was put out of action, and on the following day the No. 2 gun suffered a similar fate. In face of heavy fire, the breech blocks and carriers of both guns were stripped, and under cover of darkness the gun detachments retired to a small village a few miles from Belgrade. In all two were killed and fourteen wounded, these remarkably small casualties being attributed to the excellent construction of the battery. Sergeant Pearce and his gallant little team now joined the rapid retreat of the Serbian army which began on the 12th November, in the face of the advancing Austrians and Bulgarians. Reaching Ipek in Montenegro in late November the most difficult part of the journey remained to be made. The way was across the mountains of Albania to Scutari. Winter had set in, the tracks were so bad and so congested with the debris of the Serbian army that all wheeled transport had to be abandoned, and there was in consequence a great shortage of food. On 13 December the men of the batteries reached Podgaritza, on the 15th Scutari, and on the 19th San Giovanni di Medua. Sergeant Pearce was by now ill with dysentery but the remainder of the party were embarked on H.M.S. Dartmouth and proceeded to England. Sergeant Pearce and Corporal A. H. Turner were each awarded the D.S.M., the six Gunners all being mentioned in despatches. Pearce was uniquely awarded the Gold Medal for Bravery and the Gold Medal for Military Virtue, the other members of the battery between them being awarded a further 14 Serbian decorations, probably making them the most highly decorated battery in the history of the Royal Marine Artillery. Colour Sergeant Pearce was awarded the R.N. Long Service medal in October 1916 and was commissioned in September 1917. He was further decorated with the Belgian Croix de Guerre for his services with the R.M.A. Siege Guns in 1917. Temporary Lieutenant Pearce was placed on the Retired List in July 1919; appointed to the Special Reserve of Officer in November 1920, this being cancelled on 4 February 1921 on his being granted a permanent commission in the Army Educational Corps. Pearce died on 16 September 1966.
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