Summary

Alternative Name(s): Certificate Artwork - World War I

Original artwork, designed by Cecil G. Smith, for a certificate to be awarded to individuals who enlisted in the Great War, 1914-1918. The certificate reads 'In Freedom's Cause .... All Honour to The Brave'. The centrepiece of the certificate is an allegorical image of Australia as a a young woman, offering an olive branch towards a shield emblazoned with the Union Jack. The illuminated around the border includes the names of allied nations who participated in World War I.

The certificate was published by D.W.Paterson Co. Pty Ltd.

In the City of Melbourne's files, 1919/4514, is a letter from the publisher of this artwork, D.W.Paterson Co. Pty Ltd, of 495 Collins Street, to the Town Clerk of 10 January 1918. '...we have no hesitation in saying that the certificate now sent you is the finest yet issued. The figure in the foreground is emblematic of Australia holding the laurel branch to the volunteer. Great Britain, the Dominions and Colonies are represented by the shields at the top...'

Physical Description

Illuminated certificate - original artwork. The centrepiece of the certificate is a picture of a young woman dressed in white robes with a blue cape with the stars of the Southern Cross upon it, symbolising Australia. She offers an olive branch towards a shield emblazoned with the Union Jack. Beside her is a rifle and a soldier's tin hat. The illumination around the border of the certificate includes the names of allied nations which participated in the war: America, Japan, Serbia, Belgium, France, Russia, Italy Rumania, Portugal and Brazil.

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