Order of the Garter Plaque - New Zealand Shipping Co.

An impressive, and extremely rare, carved wooden heraldic plaque featuring the Royal Coat of Arms of the United Kingdom encircled by the Order of the Garter, Britain’s oldest and most prestigious order of chivalry, founded by King Edward III in 1348.

The upper cartouche is carved with “N.Z.”, identifying it with the New Zealand Shipping Company, whose merchant fleet played a vital role in both World Wars, transporting troops, food, supplies and ammunition for the Allied war effort. Supported by the traditional lion and unicorn and bearing the mottos Honi Soit Qui Mal Y Pense and Dieu et Mon Droit, this richly carved plaque is a striking piece of British maritime and heraldic history, with strong decorative appeal and historical significance.