Medals, What is court Mounting? and how is Queen Victoria involved?
British Army medals are typically court mounted, which means that they are mounted on a stiff board covered with fabric. There are several reasons why court mounting is preferred over other mounting methods:
1. Protection: Court mounting helps to protect the medals from damage and wear. The stiff board and fabric provide a stable base that prevents the medals from bouncing around and rubbing against each other during wear.
2. Aesthetics: Court mounting gives the medals a more polished and professional appearance. The medals are arranged in a neat and orderly manner, which makes them easier to display and appreciate.
3. Tradition: Court mounting is a long-standing tradition in the British Army. It is a sign of respect for the achievements and sacrifices of those who have earned the medals.
4. Protocol: Court mounting is also required for certain types of official occasions, such as parades and military funerals. It is a part of the protocol for these events and helps to ensure that the medals are presented in a uniform and dignified manner.
It is worth noting that court mounting is not exclusive to the British Army. It is also a common practice in other military and civilian organizations around the world.
References:
- "Medal Mounting," The Medal Centre, accessed April 29, 2023, https://www.themedalcentre.co.uk/medal-mounting/
- "Court Mounting," Medal Mounting, accessed April 29, 2023, https://www.medalmounting.com/court-mounting/
The Queen Victoria Connection
Queen Victoria is often credited with popularizing the practice of court mounting medals in the British military. During her reign from 1837 to 1901, Queen Victoria became known for her love of military pomp and ceremony. She was also a strong advocate for recognizing the achievements and sacrifices of military personnel.
According to some sources, Queen Victoria introduced court mounting as a way to better display the medals of military personnel. Prior to this, medals were typically worn on a ribbon pinned to the uniform, which could be awkward and unsteady. By mounting the medals on a stiff board covered with fabric, the medals could be arranged in a neat and orderly fashion, making them easier to display and appreciate.
Court mounting quickly became popular in the British military and is still used today for many types of medals and decorations. It is a way to show respect and honour for the achievements and sacrifices of those who have earned the medals, as well as a way to preserve and protect the medals themselves.
References:
- "Court Mounting," Medal Mounting, accessed April 29, 2023, https://www.medalmounting.com/court-mounting/
- "Queen Victoria and the Military," Historic-uk.com, accessed April 29, 2023, https://www.historic-uk.com/HistoryUK/HistoryofBritain/Queen-Victoria-and-the-Military/