Netherlands - Military accessories - 1945
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Dutch hand-painted liberation commemorative panel from 1945, wooden panel measuring 14 × 14 cm, authentic/official and in very good condition.
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Description from the seller
Just a great WW2 relic that gives you a smile....
An authentic hand-painted Dutch liberation commemorative panel, created shortly after the liberation of the Netherlands on 5 May 1945.
Executed on a wooden panel (approx. 14 × 14 cm), it depicts a smiling British "Tommy" alongside the crossed flags of the United Kingdom and the United States. The handwritten inscription "Thank You Boys – 5 May 1945" commemorates the official surrender of German forces in the Netherlands and the end of the Second World War.
The phrase "Thank You Boys" became an iconic expression of gratitude used by the Dutch population to honour the Allied liberators. During the final days of the war and the food relief missions of Operation Manna, these words famously appeared on fields, rooftops and roads, painted in giant letters so they could be read by Allied aircrews from above.
Small hand-painted souvenirs such as this were produced as pieces of folk art and served as personal mementoes celebrating the return of freedom. Because they were individually made rather than commercially manufactured, surviving examples are relatively uncommon.
The panel remains in excellent original condition, displaying an attractive natural patina consistent with its age.
Dimensions
Approx. 14 × 14 cm
A charming and highly collectible piece of Dutch Second World War history, ideal for collectors of WWII memorabilia, liberation artefacts and historical folk art.
Seller's Story
We are a passionate team of skilled collectors dedicated to sourcing truly unique and rare vintage pieces. On Catawiki, we showcase only our finest finds. Carefully curated, lovingly selected, and offered with the lowest possible shipping rates as a service to our buyers.
Every item is professionally packed the very next day and shipped via registered mail for a safe and reliable delivery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us. We are always happy to help.
Just a great WW2 relic that gives you a smile....
An authentic hand-painted Dutch liberation commemorative panel, created shortly after the liberation of the Netherlands on 5 May 1945.
Executed on a wooden panel (approx. 14 × 14 cm), it depicts a smiling British "Tommy" alongside the crossed flags of the United Kingdom and the United States. The handwritten inscription "Thank You Boys – 5 May 1945" commemorates the official surrender of German forces in the Netherlands and the end of the Second World War.
The phrase "Thank You Boys" became an iconic expression of gratitude used by the Dutch population to honour the Allied liberators. During the final days of the war and the food relief missions of Operation Manna, these words famously appeared on fields, rooftops and roads, painted in giant letters so they could be read by Allied aircrews from above.
Small hand-painted souvenirs such as this were produced as pieces of folk art and served as personal mementoes celebrating the return of freedom. Because they were individually made rather than commercially manufactured, surviving examples are relatively uncommon.
The panel remains in excellent original condition, displaying an attractive natural patina consistent with its age.
Dimensions
Approx. 14 × 14 cm
A charming and highly collectible piece of Dutch Second World War history, ideal for collectors of WWII memorabilia, liberation artefacts and historical folk art.
Seller's Story
We are a passionate team of skilled collectors dedicated to sourcing truly unique and rare vintage pieces. On Catawiki, we showcase only our finest finds. Carefully curated, lovingly selected, and offered with the lowest possible shipping rates as a service to our buyers.
Every item is professionally packed the very next day and shipped via registered mail for a safe and reliable delivery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us. We are always happy to help.
Details
Era
1900-2000
Country of origin
Netherlands
Year of manufacture
1945
Material
Wood
Condition
Very good condition
Authenticity
Original/official
Height
14 cm
Width
14 cm
Comes with certificate of authenticity
No
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