WW2 New Zealand St. John Red Cross Souvenir Brass Plate Egypt

WW2 New Zealand St. John Red Cross Souvenir Brass Plate Egypt.Te Papa says “This small dish (or ashtray) has been hand-engraved with the New Zealand Expeditionary Force (NZEF) insignia of 'NZ Onward', surrounded by fern leaves and surmounted by a crown.

The engraver has honoured the voluntary medical organisations the Red Cross and the Order of St John. At the beginning of the Second World War (1939-45), the Red Cross and St John created a Joint Council to support New Zealand's war efforts, both domestically and internationally. These organisations supported the 2NZEF which was stationed at Maadi Camp, near Cairo, Egypt, from early 1940.

This dish was made either by a member of one of the organisations, a soldier, or by a local craftsperson. Such keepsakes were often intended for loved ones back at home.” The plate is in the condition shown in the photos. I have not attempted to clean it. Happy to answer any questions