A scarce late 19th Century Oxford University armorial shield made by the prominent manufacturing company Spiers & Son of Oxford.

Spiers & Son were formed in 1834 and operated from 102 then 103 High Street in the centre of the city. Among other things, they supplied souvenirs, such as university shields.

Notably, Spiers & Son displayed their wares at the Great Exhibition of 1851, the 1862 International Exhibition in London, and the 1878 Paris Universal Exhibition.

Spiers & Son carried on trading until 1890 when they finally closed their doors to customers.

*Importantly, the shield carries the original Spiers & Son label

The shield's condition is commensurate with its age, with the left arm of the suspender carrying some old damage and repairs.