Gilbert Spencer:
Portrait of a Soldier, circa 1941
Framed (ref: 9251)
Pencil on paper

Tags: Gilbert Spencer pencil illustration men portraits war 1.Master Drawings Gilbert Spencer

Provenance: The Artists Daughter; thence by descent

The British Army adopted this form of helmet, initially known as the ‘Brodie’ helmet, as its standard head protection in 1915. However, it was not until spring 1916 that it began to be issued to troops in large numbers. Many were put into storage and reissued at the outbreak of the Second World War. Modified but similar helmets were worn by British soldiers even until the 1980s. 

The wrinkling on the top part of the chin strap in this sketch appears to be webbing, rather than leather. The sprung webbing strap was not approved until 1936, meaning this portrait likely dates from the Second World War. 

Furthermore, it is believed that this is the same 'Soldier's Head' pencil drawing that was exhibited by Gilbert Spencer at the 173rd Summer Exhibition at the Royal Academy in 1941 (catalogue no. 827). 

With thanks to Emma Mawdsley of the National Army Museum