Imperial Rhodesian Chief’s Gorget (1920–1953)

A premier emblem of traditional leadership, manufactured by F. Narborough, Birmingham.

This brass crescent, or gorget, represents the highest tier of the Tribal Leadership Institution during the early 20th century. Issued to a Chief (Mambo / iNduna), it served as a visible mandate of their recognized authority and their role as a mediator between the colonial administration and the community.

Manufacturing & Heritage

• The Maker: The reverse features the stamp of F. Narborough, Birmingham, a renowned British firm specializing in high-quality military and official regalia.

• Industrial Pedigree: The Birmingham mark signifies that these were high-specification, die-struck pieces commissioned specifically for the Department of Internal Affairs.

• Symbolism: The obverse prominently displays the British Royal Coat of Arms (the lion and unicorn), signifying the official recognition of the Chief’s status under the crown during this era.

Rhodesian Chief’s Gorget Tradition

• Form: The crescent “gorget” shape is a stylistic carryover from 18th-century military officer regalia, repurposed in the African context to denote supreme local rank.

• Period: This specific design was the standard from 1920 until 1953, predating the transition to national Rhodesian and later Zimbabwean iconography.

• Mounting: These were traditionally worn around the neck via a heavy brass chain, as seen in the archival references.

Condition

• Integrity: Examples featuring a clear F. Narborough maker’s mark are significantly more desirable to collectors of militaria and ethnographic history, as they provide a verifiable “birth certificate” for the artifact.