R O O S T E R x E A G L E

This artillery shell casing is remarkable not only because it dates back to the First World War, but also because it symbolizes its triumphant outcome. Like many soldiers who sought distraction from the monotony and horrors of trench life, this casing was most likely hand-engraved by a French soldier. The scene depicts a fighting rooster – the national emblem of France – standing victorious over a fallen eagle, representing Germany. Adding to its historical irony, the artwork was crafted on an enemy German shell casing, still clearly marked on the base with “MARZ – 1917.”

To escape the relentless stress and boredom of trench warfare, soldiers often turned to creativity, repurposing the remnants of battle into art. Known today as trench art, these pieces were handmade sculptures and decorative objects fashioned from whatever materials were at hand – spent bullets, shell casings, or ammunition boxes. With limited tools and supplies, soldiers had to rely on ingenuity, which gives trench art its raw, authentic, and deeply human character.

This unique piece carries with it a powerful story from history and would make a striking centerpiece in any World War I or military collection.