For many decades, between the late 1800's to the late 1920's, it was popular for holidaymakers/day trippers to purchase a piece of crested china as a memento of their trip. Scores of companies, many from Europe, produced a plethora of small ceramic items of all imaginary themes and designs adorned with a transfer of a town's coat of arms usually hand-coloured. Over the years these items have become a collecting passion for many people as they strive to collect all designs from a particular location or items of a particular theme. During WW1, pieces were made as patriotic momentoes. This large piece is in the form of a tank with inset trailing wheels. Detailing of the tank is incredible especially the riveting and tracks. The coat of arms for Southend on Sea has been transfer printed and hand coloured is on the top of the tank. This is in perfect condition with minimal rubbing of the gilding around the tracks. There is a black, maker's mark for Swan China on the base along with the name of the model and the registration number 658588. A great item for a crested china collector, or collector of WW1 memorabilia or for someone with a connection to Southend on Sea.

Date: c.1916-1918
Maker: Charles Ford (Swan China)
Made in England

Dimensions: 11cm x 6.5cm x 5cm