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This object tells the story of a soldier fighting Japanese forces in Burma during the Second World War. As well as seeing the deaths of fellow soldiers, being involved in combat, surviving in an unfamiliar environment and experiencing an earthquake, this soldier contracted malaria. He was sent to a military hospital in Ceylon (modern day Sri Lanka) to receive treatement and medical care. During the protacted recovery, soldiers were asked to make tea cosies to stave off boredom. This object shows the contrast between the destruction of the war continuing outside the hospital environment and the precise, calm and elegant images and products being created by the recovering soldiers. This object represents the care that was given to troops in demanding circumstances, not just medicinal care, but care that recognised the soldiers' emotional and mental needs. This object is a reminder of home comforts much missed by the soldiers. The soldier who made this tea cosy returned to active service in Burma, returning to England via his role in the occupying forces through Germany and other European countries. His parents, wife and now granddaughter have looked after the (unused!) tea cosy.