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CHESHIRE ANTIQUES CONSULTANT LTD

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Item Details

Historic WW2 Bronze Scottish Heraldic Plaque – Duncan Arms, OBE, Ministry of Supply Glasgow, c.1940s
This rare mid-20th century painted bronze heraldic plaque is a striking example of British armorial art, created for official display rather than public sale. Richly cast and hand-painted, it bears the arms of the Duncan family, mounted within the Order of the British Empire circlet and badge – a combination directly associated with Sir Andrew Rae Duncan, GBE, Minister of Supply during the Second World War.
Heraldic Achievement
Arms (Shield): Red ground with a gold chevron, between two cinquefoils and a hunting horn – the traditional Duncan family arms.
Crest: A ship under full sail, decorated with red cinquefoils, symbolising Scotland’s seafaring and mercantile tradition.
Supporters: Allegorical figures – one bearing a torch (Enlightenment/Knowledge), the other with a hammer (Industry/Labour).
Motto: Consilio et Prudentia (“By Wisdom and Prudence”).
Order of the British Empire: Encircled by the OBE motto For God and the Empire, with the cross of the order suspended below.
Provenance
Part of the original wooden case that housed this plaque survives, bearing a label addressed to:
Major Jackson Millar, Regional Controller, Ministry of Supply, 21 Glassford Street, Glasgow.
The Ministry of Supply (1939–1959) oversaw Britain’s wartime and post-war industrial production. This provenance directly connects the plaque to the Glasgow offices, and by extension to Britain’s WWII effort under Sir Andrew Rae Duncan, GBE.
Dating
Securely placed in the mid-20th century, c.1940s–1950s.
Dimensions & Weight
Height: 38.5 cm
Width: 35 cm
Thickness: 0.6 cm
Weight: 13 kg
Condition Report
Offered in fine used condition.
Some scuffs, scratches, and wear consistent with age.
Retains its original painted and gilded surfaces with an attractive patina.
No hanging bracket – a new one will be required for wall display.
Collecting Significance
This plaque brings together Scottish heraldry, wartime history, and civic identity in one decorative piece.
Particularly appealing to collectors of:
Heraldic and armorial art
Scottish history and memorabilia
WWII and Ministry of Supply artefacts
Mid-century decorative bronzes
Summary
A historic and finely crafted 13 kg bronze heraldic plaque, linking the Duncan family arms and the Order of the British Empire to Britain’s wartime industrial heritage in Glasgow. With its impressive scale, bold colour, and documented provenance, it is both a decorative statement and a valuable collector’s item.
Shipping
Worldwide shipping available – expertly packaged and fully insured for safe international delivery.
Click “Buy It Now” to add this historic Scottish plaque to your collection or interior décor.
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  • Period: 1940's
    • Price: £3,600.00
    • €4,121 Euro
    • $4,842 US Dollar
  • Location: London
    • Dimensions: H: 38.5cm (15.16in)
    • W: 35cm (13.78in)
    • D: 0.6cm (0.24in)