WW1 porcelain memorial plaque - Charles Grossemy, 70th French infantry
An antique oval porcelain memorial plaque, commemorating Charles Grossemy, a Sergeant of French 70th infantry who died on 20th July 1918 at the Battle of Soissons.
The domed oval plaque bears a monochrome photograph transfer of Sergent Grossemy in his uniform, along with bold typography of his name and stylised typography for his memoriam. The plaque is sealed into a pewter frame, which has moulded laurel rope details and a loop for wall hanging.
A poignant and evocative piece of WWI memorabilia, the translation reads:
Charles Grossemy
Sergeant 70th Infantry
Killed in Plessier Huleux on July 20, 1918
at the age of 25.
Gentleman of the Croix de Guerre (War cross)
The 70th French Infantry Division (DI) was involved in a number of major battles during the first world war, including the Somme, Ypres, The Hindenburg line and Amien (among many others). The 70th DI lost close to 17,000 men in the first 17 months of the war and 10,000 more for the duration of the war.
Plessier Huleux is a French commune located in the Aisne department, in the Hauts-de-France region, just south of Soissons. The French, along with British and American assistance, fought the German armies from July 18–22, 1918. The battle was part of the Allied Aisne-Marne counter-offensive and was a turning point in the war.
Dimensions:
Frame
19.2cm tall including loop
12.7cm wide
1.2cm deep
Condition:
In superb condition with minimal wear and no damage. Patination to the frame.
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