A Very early example of a 1940 Pattern (Austerity) Battledress Blouse in a large size 16 and stunning condition.
This jacket is clearly dated 1942 and has a number of early features including the 1937 pattern style revolving shank buttons on the epaulettes and the brown horn buttons often associated with early manufacture by collectors.
Inside the jacket the original label is present and isn't overly worn or faded meaning it is still easily legible. The 1942 date is clear at the bottom as is the makers name 'Harry Levene Ltd' which is a less common maker to find with original battledress. The War Department stamp and crows foot are also present inside the jacket and is surmounted by the letter O which confirms 1942 as the year of issue.
The jacket is a large size 16 which will fit up to a 40" chest, 35" waist and up to 6'2" in height. The buttons on the front of the jacket appear to have been moved so it may fit slightly larger.
The overall condition of the jacket really is very good. The nap of the serge is still extremely good and fluffy as it would have been when first issued. It has been worn away with use or shaved down as is common to find with original battledress. The waist buckle is in excellent condition and the two collar hooks at the top of the jacket don't appear to have ever been used and still retain all of their original black painted finish.
Overall a very nice example of a wartime British Battledress blouse which is not only an early example of austerity production but also a very generous size. The condition of it makes it a real collectors piece in my opinion but it would also be good for a taller re-enactor.
