*British, HMS Thunderer & HMS Britannia Relic Teak Desk Set – Inkstand & Blotter*
A pair of early 20th century desk items crafted from reclaimed battleship timber, each bearing a plaque identifying its origin.
HMS Thunderer Inkstand – Double inkwell and pen rest constructed from teak salvaged from the battleship HMS Thunderer, a ship that fought at the Battle of Jutland (1916). The stand retains its two ceramic liners (one blue-crackled, one pink-crackled) beneath original teak covers. 28cms wide. Brass plaque reads: “Made from Battleship Teak taken from H.M.S. Thunderer – Jutland.”
HMS Britannia Blotter – Wooden rocker blotter, 13cms wide, with brass plaque stating: “Made from timber taken from H.M.S. Britannia.” The Britannia name was borne by several significant Royal Navy ships; most famously the cadet training ship scuttled in 1918.
Historical Note: These desk pieces are examples of “relic souvenirs” produced during the interwar period and after ship decommissioning, when timbers from notable Royal Navy vessels were sold or gifted as commemorative mementos. HMS Thunderer was an Orion-class battleship launched in 1911, serving as part of the Grand Fleet at the Battle of Jutland. She was decommissioned in 1921. HMS Britannia served variously as a cadet training ship and was replaced in 1905 by HMS Prince of Wales (renamed Britannia). Decommissioned timber was frequently turned into mementos for former cadets and naval enthusiasts. Such pieces were popular among naval officers, crew, and collectors as tangible links to Britain’s maritime heritage.
*Condition* HMS Thunderer Inkstand: Teak with rich patina, some light scratches and wear consistent with age. Brass plaque with age toning. Both ceramic liners present, showing crackle glaze and light ink residue. Green baize to base with minor losses. Hinges functional. HMS Britannia Blotter: Teak with smooth patina and light surface wear. Brass plaque intact with light tarnish. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
