WW1 War Artist brass shoulder title.

[chesterpiglet]

I picked this up this morning in France from a specialist who had a few British & Commonwealth cap badges but not many I couldn't find any information online so I took a chance. It wasn't for nothing but not too expensive either(unless it's fake or a fantasy piece of course). For me research is a big part of the enjoyment for me. It's hard to tell but it appears to have been cast as one piece as all the finish/filing lines are in the same direction. I cannot tell if it is braised or soldered despite looking hard. Certainly from the back it has a home made/hand finished look to it. It is 46mm in width & approx 6g in weight. Can anybody tell me if there were enlisted soldiers who were official war artists who may have worn it? Any comments as to authenticity or otherwise would be gratefully received.

[chesterpiglet]

Does anybody have a copy of Collecting Metal Shoulder Titles Ray Westlake? If so could you have a look & see if there is any information as this seems to be the Shoulder title Bible. Many thanks.

[Jerry B]

Westlake lists war correspondent but not war artist

[HARRY THE MOLE]

Yours might be a fantasy piece, attached are images of some examples sold at auction in Cornwall a few days ago.

Cheers,
Steve

[chesterpiglet]

Thanks for your comments- I fear you may be right. If so wouldn't there be other recorded examples? I just found the sale you mentioned- they sold for £500 so presumably they were genuine? Certainly there weren't many War Artists & even less who wore a uniform. I did find 2 photos of War Artists in uniform at the National Portrait Gallery.

[chesterpiglet]

Any comments on construction/style etc?

[HARRY THE MOLE]

I find the lack of 'OFFICIAL' in the title a bit odd. I would have thought that only 'official' war artists were allowed anywhere near the front. It's only my opinion though, and although it's not often that I'm right - I could be wrong again!

Cheers,
Steve

[chesterpiglet]

Thanks Steve. I'm away from home just now but will investigate further when I get back. Regards Rob.

[chesterpiglet]

I think the lugs are brazed(I gently scratched one of them). I read that repro/fakes are soldered & not brazed.

[Jerry B]

Now on ebay if anyone wants to buy it.