Significance

An example of elaborate enamel signage acquired as a result of the long standing close links of Naval forces with the Mission to Seafarers from 19th C onwards.

Physical description

A rectangular black enamel sign on metal ground featuring polychrome insignia of Naval Ordnance Inspection and Design. The insignia shows circular border of ropework encircling a red ground depicting a black and white cannon with a large lynx type feline. The ropework border is surmounted by a stylised crown like structure comprised of: a split focsle?, two sails with red pennants or burgees and stern of a galleon and around the band of the crown a red 'jewel' flanked by two blue green 'jewels'

Inscriptions & markings

Insignia wording in yellow on black ground in upper case letters: " NAVAL ORDNANCE INSPECTION / AND DESIGN / SAFETY AND QUALITY "
Below insignia in white paint in upper case letters: "INSPECTOR NAVAL ORDNANCE / MELBOURNE"