Army Textile Appraisal

British Army Royal Artillery Officer's Stable Belt or Guidon Embroidery

This item appears to be a section of an embroidered fabric piece, possibly a stable belt or a guidon/standards banner fragment, associated with the British Royal Artillery. The item is predominantly yellow and black, constructed from a fabric base, likely silk or satin given its sheen and slight wrinkles. The central yellow field features an intricate embroidery in gold and black threads, depicting the Royal Artillery's iconic badge: a flaming grenade above crossed cannons, beneath which a scroll bears the motto 'SEMPER UBICUMQUE' (or possibly 'SEMPER ED OVUNQUE' as it appears to be spelled out in part on the scroll 'SEMPRE ED OVUNQUE'). The cannons, grenade, and lettering on the scroll are embroidered with a raised, padded effect, suggesting high-quality goldwork. A black border frames the central yellow field, adorned with a repeating gold braided or rope-like pattern. Below this black border, there is a fringe in gold/brown threads, indicating it is likely an edge or bottom portion of a larger textile item. Four blue fabric loops or ties are visible at the corners, possibly for attachment or display. The overall condition shows some creasing and slight wear consistent with age and previous use; the yellow fabric has minor wrinkles and there might be some fading, though the embroidery itself seems largely intact and vibrant. The craftsmanship, particularly the detailed gold embroidery, suggests a piece of significance and quality, likely for ceremonial or formal wear/display. The specific motif and motto firmly place its origin within the British Royal Artillery. The estimated age could range from the late 19th to mid-20th century, given the style of embroidery and the consistent emblem.