Description

In the Shape of a Telescope 

From our Silver collection, we are pleased to offer this Novelty Silver Plate Telescope Flask. The Silver Flask with military interest in the shape of a novelty collapsed telescope with ribbed top and simulated eye cover to the top lid. The Silver Flask unscrews from the top to remove the lid and also contains a removable drinking cup to the base. The body of the flask is engraved with a griffins head, ER monogram and Captain W. Rennie V. C 90th light infantry. The Silver Flask is also complete with its original leather carry case and dates to the late 19th century during the Victorian period circa 1863.

Measurements (inches) 8.66 x 2.7 Diameter

William Rennie Lieutenant-Colonel William Rennie VC (1821-1896) was part of the British Army and the 90th Regiment of Foot (Perthshire Volunteers). Rennie was 34 years old during the Indian Mutiny when he was awarded the Victoria Cross (the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces) for the following deed at the siege of Lucknow “For conspicuous gallantry in the advance upon Lucknow, under the late Major-General Havelock, on the 21st of September, 1857, in having charged the enemy’s guns in advance of the skirmishers of the 90th Light Infantry, under a heavy musketry fire, and prevented them dragging off one gun, which was consequently captured. For conspicuous gallantry at Lucknow on the 25th of September, 1857, in having charged in advance of the 90th column, in the face of a heavy fire of grape, forcing the enemy to abandon their guns.” Lieutenant Rennie was promoted to Captain on 9 January 1863, Major on 10 December 1873, Lieutenant-Colonel on 28 March 1874 and retired in 1875. He died in Elgin, North Scotland in August 1896, aged 74 years. His headstone is at Elgin Cemetery, Moray, Scotland. His Victoria Cross was purchased by the Cameronians Regimental Museum, Hamilton, Lanarkshire, Scotland in 1969 for the value of £1700 which was a record at the time for such a medal and is on display today.

Silver Plate refers to a method of applying a thin layer of silver to a base metal such as brass. Therefore it refers to an item which is not solid silver but plated to the outer coating.

With every purchase from Mark Goodger Antiques, you will receive our latest catalogue, a Certificate of Authenticity, detailed care instructions for your chosen piece and an independent invoice (for insurance purposes) will be enclosed. As well as being protected by a no-hassle, money-back policy, your piece will be entirely insured during the shipping process to ensure the safety of your item.

Additional information