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Carved crystal inkwell lid
Carved crystal inkwell lid

Carved crystal inkwell lid

Datec 1920
Object number00045372
NameInkwell lid
MediumCrystal
DimensionsOverall: 10 x 53 x 53 mm
ClassificationsTools and equipment
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from M Herman
DescriptionA carved crystal inkwell lid featuring a hatched diamond decoration. The lid originally sat atop the crystal inkwell (00031078) and is part of a souvenir desk set made from the wood of the original HMAS SYDNEY. The set commemorates HMAS SYDNEY'S success during World War I, in particular her success against the German raider EMDEN during the Battle of Cocos.HistoryHMAS SYDNEY was part of the first Royal Australian Navy fleet. Built in England in 1912, SYDNEY saw spectacular success in World War I during an engagement in the Indian Ocean against the German raider SMS EMDEN. In November 1915 SYDNEY defeated EMDEN in battle - an event that placed the RAN on the map in its own right. For the remainder of the War, the cruiser was deployed to the North Atlantic and West Indies Station, then the South Atlantic Station, the North Sea, and was present at the surrender of the German High Seas Fleet in November 1918. From 1919 to 1928 SYDNEY undertook routine duties with the Australian Squadron until final decommissioning in 1928.SignificanceThe HMAS SYDNEY and SMS EMDEN battle was one of immense significance for the RAN and the people of Australia. It proved the RAN was just as professional as the Royal Navy and also had a significant role to play in the Allied forces. The event was widely celebrated in Australia with many souvenirs and mementoes being manufactured. In addition to these souvenirs some were made from pieces of the ship, such as this desk set.