Naval Traditions and Culture

Naval traditions and culture encompass a wide range of activities, events, and objects, often unique to naval service. Some, like the "crossing the line" (meaning, the equator) ceremony, are old and well-established, while others, such as gun shield art, related directly to Second World War experiences. Many reflect companionship, commemoration, recreation, or esprit de corps.

"Beatty" Toby Jug

This First World War Toby jug depicts British Admiral Sir David Beatty, a prominent naval commander before, during, and after the war.

One of a series of such jugs by British political cartoonist Francis Carruthers Gould featuring Allied military leaders and politicians, this example shows Beatty, in uniform, holding a shell marked "Dread/nought" - a reference to the type of battleship that formed the centrepiece of Britain's naval might during the war. Its handle takes the shape of a naval gun, while a stylized submarine decorates one side of the base.

Toby Jug
CWM 19760495-002