Antique 1910’s WWI Trench Art Artillery Shell

Antique 1910’s WWI British Trench art vase

This unique vase might seem like it has originally been crafted this way, but it was actually made out of a British artillery shell!

To escape the daily stress of war and boredom in the trenches during the First World War, soldiers would distract themselves through the production of art. Appropriately named “Trench art”, soldiers would express their feelings by hand crafting sculptures and other decorative items by repurposing materials that were available to them; such as bullets, shell casings and ammunition boxes. Limited in both these materials, and tools, soldier had to be very resourceful, which gives the artform its rough and naive character.

This very shell was engraved by hand and shows a chimney with a stork sitting on top. The Scottish Thistle that were carved in the bottom might indicate that it was crafted by a Scottish soldier!

This special piece would make the perfect addition to any WWI or military collection!

After more than a century the shell remains in worn condition. Over the years it acquired a beautiful oxidized patina that only adds to its rough charm! It has been treated with antique wax to give the surface a protective layer and a subtle glossy finish.

Measurements:
Lenght: 35 cm
Diameter: 8.5 cm