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Framed Print : Not party of Army issue, but this gigantic coolie hat is the souvenir brought back
Framed Photos from TopFoto
Not party of Army issue, but this gigantic coolie hat is the souvenir brought back
Not party of Army issue, but this gigantic coolie hat is the souvenir brought back to Southampton by National Serviceman Private John Ainsworth, 19, when he arrived from Malaya with the 1st Battalion Royal West Kent Regiment. The battalion came home aboard the Empire Orwell after three years in Malaya.
25th March 1954
TopFoto independent historic photographs and images all subjects and eras
Media ID 11278333
© 2005 TopFoto
14"x12" (38x32cm) Modern Frame
Step back in time with our vintage framed print from the Media Storehouse collection. This unique image captures the spirit of a National Serviceman's overseas adventure, as Private John Ainsworth proudly holds up a "gigantic coolie hat" - a souvenir from his time in service, not an issue hat from the Army. The intriguing story behind this quirky keepsake is brought to life in this beautifully framed print, making it a must-have for history enthusiasts and collectors. Add a touch of nostalgia to your home or office decor.
Wood effect frame, card mounted, 10x8 archival quality photo print. Overall outside dimensions 14x12 inches (38x32cm). Environmentally and ozone friendly, 40mm wide x 15mm Polycore® moulding has the look of real wood, is durable and light and easy to hang. Biodegradable and made with non-chlorinated gases (no toxic fumes) it is efficient; producing 100 tons of polystyrene can save 300 tons of trees! Prints are glazed with lightweight, shatterproof, optical clarity acrylic (providing the same general protection from the environment as glass). The back is stapled hardboard with a sawtooth hanger attached. Note: To minimise original artwork cropping, for optimum layout, and to ensure print is secure, the visible print may be marginally smaller
Contemporary Framed and Mounted Prints - Professionally Made and Ready to Hang
Estimated Image Size (if not cropped) is 18.5cm x 24.4cm (7.3" x 9.6")
Estimated Product Size is 32.5cm x 37.6cm (12.8" x 14.8")
These are individually made so all sizes are approximate
Artwork printed orientated as per the preview above, with portrait (vertical) orientation to match the source image.
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this photo print, we are transported back to the year 1954, where Private John Ainsworth proudly showcases his unique souvenir from Malaya. Standing tall in Southampton, England, the young National Serviceman holds up a gigantic coolie hat that is clearly not part of the Army issue. This oversized headgear serves as a testament to Private Ainsworth's time spent with the 1st Battalion Royal West Kent Regiment in Malaya for three long years. As they returned home aboard the Empire Orwell, he brought back this remarkable memento that undoubtedly caught everyone's attention. The sheer size of the coolie hat emphasizes its significance and adds an element of curiosity to this photograph. It symbolizes Private Ainsworth's connection to a distant land and culture far removed from his homeland. Although it may not have been officially sanctioned by his superiors or intended for military use, this souvenir represents something more profound – personal experiences and memories forged during service overseas. With a thumbs-up gesture and an infectious smile on his face, Private John Ainsworth proudly displays his prized possession while leaving behind any mention of commercial use or affiliations. This image captures a moment frozen in time when one soldier's journey intersects with history itself - reminding us all of the diverse stories hidden within each individual who has served their country.
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