Maltese Cross with Folding Arms
Needle Case (photographs from eBay)
Design Representation
Design Details
Needle Case Type: |
Figural |
Patent/Registered to: |
W. Avery & Son - Redditch |
Patent/Design Representation #: |
Ornamental Class1: Metal: #290150 |
Patent/Design Registration Date: |
March 24, 1875
|
Location of Patent/Design Registration: |
The National Archives (TNA) - Kew, UK |
Reference #: |
TNA Representation - BT 43/38/290150
TNA Register - BT 44/3/290150 |
Dimensions: |
2 5/8 x 2 3/4 (these dimensions are in inches rather than centimeters) |
Material: |
Brass |
Name Variations: |
W. Avery & Son - Redditch |
Other Variations: |
None |
Additional Photographs
Back exterior view closed and opened
Interior detail showing location of needle packets
Views of the signature detail and the registration diamond and 607 number
Facts
A Maltese cross is a geometric figure composed of four “V”-shaped elements joined at the vertex with eight points spread our
symmetrically. Different varieties of these crosses are commonly found on insignia related to military, police, fireighters and
occasionally governmental units in Western Culture where they have come to signify protection.
History
The Maltese cross originated as a symbol representing the Knights Hospitaller also known as the Knights of Malta. This group was
founded in the Middle Ages by the Pope following the First Crusade as a Christian military order responsible for protecting Jerusalem and
assisting pilgrims. The eight points of the Maltese cross symbolize the obligations of the knights: truth, faith, repentance, humility,
justice, mercy, sincerity and endurance.
Miscellaneous
The Victoria Cross was introduced in 1856 by Queen Victoria to honor soldiers of the Crimean War. It is the highest military
decoration awarded for valor to the armed forces of the Commonwealth countries, and previous British Empire territories. Since its
inception it has been awarded 1,357 times with only 14 metals awarded since World War II.
