An original WW1 British Tank Corps carved wooden smoker’s companion, dating from the period when the Corps used its early no-motto insignia. Beautifully handcrafted, this attractive desk accessory combines practical function with military character and would have been intended to hold cigarettes, matches and other smoking accessories. Today it makes an unusual and highly decorative display piece for any Tank Corps or WW1 collection.

Crafted from richly figured wood, the companion displays a particularly attractive natural grain and warm colour throughout, giving it real presence on display. The front features divided compartments, including a narrow central section designed to hold a box of matches, while the sliding drawer below provides additional storage for cigarettes, tobacco, papers or other smoking accessories. The vintage matchbox shown in the photographs is included with the purchase and is provided as a display and reference piece to demonstrate the intended purpose of the central compartment. It should be regarded as a display accessory rather than an original component of the smoker’s companion.

The drawer is decorated with the original no-motto Tank Corps insignia, dating the design to the early years of the Corps before the later “Fear Naught” scroll was introduced. The lid is carved with a second military-style crest above the Latin motto “Sua Tela Tonanti” (“His weapons for the Thunderer”). Despite considerable research, I have not been able to positively identify this crest. While the motto is historically associated with British Army ordnance organisations, the carved emblem itself does not correspond with the standard Board of Ordnance or Royal Army Ordnance Corps insignia, and is therefore described exactly as found. It remains an interesting feature that may warrant further research by the eventual owner.

The overall condition is very good. The wood retains a beautiful colour and finish, with the carving remaining crisp and well defined throughout. The sliding drawer operates smoothly, the internal dividers are intact, and there are no obvious signs of significant damage or repairs. It presents exceptionally well and is an impressive example of period military craftsmanship. It’s also important to point out, the matchbox cover you can see in the photos is there purely to display what that particular section is for.

A scarce and highly decorative WW1 military smoker’s companion that would make an excellent addition to any Tank Corps, British Army or WW1 collection.