Queen's South Africa Medal 1899-1902, awarded to William Barns Wollen, War Artist with 'The Sphere'

Circular, silver campaign medal with, on the obverse, a profile head of Queen Victoria with the inscription, 'Victoria Regina et Imperatrix' (Victoria, Queen and Empress). On the reverse, the figure of Britannia holding a Union Flag and laurel wreath, the words 'South Africa', marching troops and warships in the background. The medal is suspended on a red, yellow and dark blue ribbon.

Born in October 1857 in Leipzig Wollen had been intended for the Army but decided on a career in art instead. He worked as an illustrator for 'The Sphere' in South Africa. His works include: 'Charge of the Lancers at Omdurman 1899', 'The Victoria Cross' and 'The Imperial Light Horse at Elandslaagte'. He died on 28 March 1936.

The Queen's South Africa Medal was awarded to soldiers who served during the Boer War (1899-1902) in South Africa between 11 October 1899 and 31 May 1902. Twenty-six clasps were awarded with this medal, indicating each action and state campaign of the conflict.