Original Item: Only one set available. A fine set of a black leather document pouch and cross belt heavily decorated with wide bands of silver wire and gold washed heavily embossed fittings.
The interior of the pouch is marked:
HOLT & SON
20 SACKVILLE STREET
LONDON W
The front of the pouch bears a royal cypher of crown over ERI (Edward Rex Imperator) that translates to- Edward, King and Emperor (India).
By the time of King Edward VII, document pouches were strictly for ceremonial use but originally, as recently as the Crimean War of 1855, they had practical everyday use. The pouch is worn in the center of a trooper’s back on a sling belt that hangs over one shoulder and under the other. The intention was that an officer could write orders, call for a messenger, and personally place the papers into the document pouch where the trooper could not reach or read them.
Upon arrival at the desired destination the receiving officer himself removed the papers and security was thus achieved.
This nice set from circa 1901 is in very a wonderful matured condition and ready to display after more than 100 years.