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Young Private, 6th Battalion (City of London Rifles), WW1
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Young Private, 6th Battalion (City of London Rifles), WW1
Head and shoulders miniature portrait of a young Private, possibly of the 6th Battalion (City of London Rifles), by Alice James, RMS RWA (fl. 1887-1930). Wilkinson Badges of the British Army reveals that the 6th (City of London Rifles) wore a rifle cross in bronze and the 9th (Queen Victoria Rifles) wore one in brass. Both are really rather smart pre-war territorial battalions and would have within their ranks men whose families would be in a position to commission portrait miniatures of their nearest and dearest
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Media ID 14149129
© David Cohen Fine Art/Mary Evans Picture Library
Alice Battalion Battalions Brass Bronze Commission Khaki Miniatures Oval Private Regiments Rifle Rifles Shoulders
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative head and shoulders miniature portrait captures the youthful face of a Private in the 6th Battalion (City of London Rifles) during the early years of the First World War. The meticulously painted portrait, created by the skilled hand of Alice James (RMS RWA, fl. 1887-1930), showcases the young soldier's determined expression and the intricate details of his uniform. The 6th Battalion, also known as the "City of London Rifles," was a pre-war territorial battalion of the British Army, renowned for its smart appearance. Their distinctive insignia was the rifle cross in bronze, which can be seen subtly depicted on the soldier's collar and cuff. The 9th Battalion (Queen Victoria Rifles) also wore a similar rifle cross, but in brass. Miniature portraits such as this one were a cherished keepsake for families during this era. The 6th and 9th Battalions attracted men from affluent backgrounds, and it is likely that this portrait was commissioned by a loved one to preserve the memory of their dear one in uniform. The portrait depicts the young soldier in his khaki uniform, complete with a cap bearing the distinctive City of London Rifles cap badge. The oval shape of the portrait, a common format for miniatures, adds to its intimacy and charm. As the world prepared for the unimaginable horrors of the First World War, portraits like this served as a poignant reminder of the young men who answered the call to duty. This evocative portrait stands as a testament to the history and heritage of the 6th Battalion (City of London Rifles) and the many brave soldiers who served in its ranks.
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