Framed WWI Roll of Service with Illuminated Border

Framed Roll of Service from Billinghay and Dogdyke (1914–1919), listing names of World War I servicemen. The document features ornate calligraphy, a central crest, and decorative borders with shields, floral designs, and two knights on horseback
Before treatment

Object Identification

  • Object name: Framed WWI roll of service with illuminated border
  • Date: c. 1919
  • Origin: Billinghay and Dodyke, Lincolnshire
  • Owner: Bellingham Church
  • Maker: Signed by the artist as H. Hill and signed by the suppliers (church furnishers) Luis Valette Ltd RYE. Sussex
  • Dimensions: H 71.5 cm x W 46 cm x D 1.5 cm
  • Materials: Thick parchment, illuminated with water based paint, ink. Oak wood casing and glazing.

Object Summary

This roll of service honours the men and women from Billinghay and Dodyke, Lincolnshire, who served in World War I. It recognises their contributions across various regiments, including the Lincolnshire Regiment, Leicestershire Regiment, and Machine Gun Corps (Infantry). Sister N. Wilson is featured for her service as a nurse. The red crosses mark those who sacrificed their lives during service. The manuscript’s vibrant illuminated border depicts intricate motifs—flowers, musical animals, and knights on horseback. At its top, the Union Jack is adorned with a shield featuring a sphinx inscribed ‘Egypt X Lincolnshire Regiment’. The Lincolnshire Regiment earned the sphinx on their cap badge for their service in Egypt during the French Revolutionary War. Flags arranged in groups of three likely symbolise Allied nations.

Framed Roll of Service for Billinghay and Dogdyke (1914–1919), featuring ornate decoration and a list of names. An orange annotation overlays the image, highlighting areas where the parchment adhered to the glass, including sections across the top, centre, and right edge.
The annotation in orange marks the areas that
this parchment was stuck to glass

This object was conserved by Amy D’Alwis. Find out more about her by clicking on the profile below!

Black and white portrait of a woman smiling

Amy D’Alwis