WWI Wartime Trench Art-This is a brass shell that measures 13 ½ inches (34.29cm) high and 3 inches (7.62cm) in diameter (at the top). This is dedicated to the American Red Cross, but it appears to have been made by a Frenchman. There is a large FR on one side, and a shield on the other that reads “American Red Cross 1918”. There is a dedication in French at the top. The center part of this shell has a handsome hammered brass background. The base of this shell has been crimped or transformed to give it a very interesting style. The bottom of this shell is very well marked. This is an interesting example!
History: Trench art is a term used to describe objects made from the debris bi-products of war. It is commonly associated with the World War One, although we see trench art from other conflicts as well. Most trench art was made by servicemen while they passed the time, when not in the front line. Much of it was simple and amateurish, we have seen planes made out of shrapnel, carved walking stick from wood and other material. Some are quite professional as though they may have access to a machine shop or something. Prisoners of war, faced with a constant battle against boredom, produced similar items. Each piece tells an interesting story!