BRONZE OF WWII SOLDIER "OLD BILL". The character was created by soldier Charles Bruce Bairnsfather who was a prominent British humorist and cartoonist. Bill was first launched in BYSTANDER MAGAZINE in 1915. These were sold as automobile mascots by Smith & Sons, Portland St., London. The underside of the character's scarf with a deep stamped "S" designating Smith as the retailer. Bronze size 4 5/8" tall. Mounted on a nicely turned mahogany base making the overall height 5 1/2". top of his helmet brim signed in bold script "Bruce Bairnsfather". Condition fine. Bronze with lovely age color and darker than the photos which were lightened to show the details better. Interesting collectible that I purchased in London from The Parker Gallery way back in 1979.