*British, Royal Engineers Wall Plaque, Large Hand-Painted Crest on Timber Shield*
A substantial and visually impressive Royal Engineers wall plaque, featuring the regimental garter motto “Honi Soit Qui Mal Y Pense” encircling the gilt “ER” cypher beneath a finely modelled Queen’s Crown. The crest is hand-painted in the classic Royal Engineers colours—blue, red, gold, and laurel green with red berries—and mounted on a broad, shaped hardwood shield. The front displays excellent depth of carving to the crown, strap, wreath and scroll, with crisp lettering and good colour retention. The reverse shows two original mounting bolts securing the crest to the board, together with an older wire hanger.
The shield measures approximately 28 cm x 33.5 cm (11 x 13¼ in), and the crest itself around 20.2 cm x 23 cm (8 x 9 in), giving the piece a strong decorative presence suitable for display in a study, office, mess environment, or regimental collection.
Historical Note: Royal Engineers wall plaques of this type were commonly produced from the mid-20th century onward for RE units, messes, offices, and presentation purposes. This example uses the Queen Elizabeth II crown (St Edward’s Crown), placing it in the post-1953 period. Many such plaques were carved or cast individually in workshops, often by tradesmen within the Corps—particularly sappers trained in carpentry or metalwork—resulting in each example having unique detailing and character. The badge incorporates the Order of the Garter motto, long associated with elite British military and ceremonial regalia.
*Condition* Overall good display condition. The crest retains strong colour and detail with only light rubbing and minor age wear to high points. The hardwood backboard has a crack running across the lower half; this remains structurally stable and is readily repairable. The mounting bolts and wire are original and secure. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
