Vintage 40’s WWII Trench Art Ashtray

Vintage 40’s WWII era Dutch trench art ashtray

This unique ashtray was crafted by hand out of a 1944′ British brass artillery shell. It’s decorated with a national Dutch lion.

To escape the daily stress during the Second World War, both soldiers and civilians would distract themselves through the production of art. Appropriately named “Trench art”, they 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 special piece can still be used but would also make the perfect addition to any WWII collection!

After more than a century the ashtray 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:
Height: 14 cm
Diameter: 10.5 cm