Infantry valise, other ranks, sealed pattern, 1869-1882 (c)

Black canvas back and front flaps, black leather sides and bottom; with black leather straps, sliders and blackened metal buckles; white buff leather bands are stitched to the top corners at the back, each bears a brass loops and buckle.

A 'sealed pattern' is a master pattern of any item that the British Army issued to soldiers. It provided clothing or equipment suppliers with an example to copy.

Equipment used during the Peninsular War and the Crimean War, particularly the pack worn on the back, was known to cause respiratory infections and a condition known as back palsy. The binding straps that crossed the chest restricted breathing and the straps would rub raw the skin under the arms and on the shoulders. The new valise, made of a soft canvas was worn at the small of the back and supported by wide shoulder braces was a much healthier and more comfortable replacement.