United Kingdom. A First War Leather Cordite Carrier

A First World War Cordite Carrier, a cylindrical tube constructed of cork, the exterior is covered in a light brown leather. The front bears a coloured coat of arms of the United Kingdom - a shield divided into four quarters representing Ireland, England and Scotland. The upper left and lower right quarters of the shield feature the three guardian lions of England. In the top right is the lion rampant, Scotland’s royal symbol. In the lower left is a harp which represents Ireland. The shield is encompassed by the Garter circlet inscribed with ““HONI SOIT QUI MAL Y PENSE” (SHAME ON HE WHO THINKS EVIL). On the left hand side is a lion representing England and on the right hand side is a unicorn, representing Scotland, both standing on a compartment featuring a thistle, Tudor rose and Shamrock and the motto “DIE ET MON DROIT” (GOD AND MY RIGHT). Below that is a strip of light interwoven fabric attached with two copper rivets. 280 mm below that strip is another light strip of interwoven fabric attached with two copper rivets. The base of the tube bears a thick material attached with two copper rivets on each side. The bottom of the tube is marked “N. 56 VI B.H. & G. L. TD” (made by Barrow, Hepburn & Gale of Bermondsey, London). Above the coat of arms is a copper metal piece used to attach a lid. The top left and right bear two copper metal buttons to attach a leather handle. The interior of the tube is lined with cream coloured canvas. Measuring 695 mm (h) x 593 mm (circumference), some signs of wear due to usage and age, but in extremely fine condition.

Footnote: Commonly referred to as Clarkson Cases, cordite carriers were a foolproof way to transport cordite (a slow burning explosive) to the breeches. The explosive was placed into the container before leaving the magazine and were hoisted up to the guns and returned to the magazines for reloading. The cases were constructed of cork as cork is naturally fire resistant and lightweight - making it easy to carry. Leather was used on the exterior to provide a tight, water resistant seal. The canvas on the interior was used to seal the cork. Copper rivets were used because the metal will not give a potentially lethal spark.

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