Vintage 1942/43 anti tank 37mm M16 shell casings repurposed known as trench art.
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This matched pair of shells could now be used as candle stick holders or bud vases - see pictures.
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Some age related wear. They could be polished to a high shine. Personally I love the patina.
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Size: 22 cm tall 5 cm round
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Trench art, a term often associated with the First World War, refers to items crafted by soldiers, prisoners of war, or civilians from discarded war materials and debris. This practice, though most prominent during WWI, extends to other conflicts and can be found in different eras. These objects, ranging from simple to elaborate, offer a unique insight into the lives and creativity of those affected by war.
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Origins and Evolution:
World War I:
The term "trench art" gained prominence during the First World War, a period marked by abundant war materials and widespread psychological trauma. Soldiers, often in the trenches, used discarded shell casings, bullets, and other materials to create souvenirs, practical objects, and expressions of their experiences.
Beyond WWI:
While WWI is often associated with trench art, the practice of using war materials for artistic purposes has a broader history, spanning from the Napoleonic Wars to the present day.
Diverse Materials and Techniques:
Trench art encompasses a variety of materials, including metal (shell casings, bullets, brass, copper), wood, bone, and even bisquits. Techniques range from simple carving and decoration to metalworkingand even more complex processes like welding.
Purpose and Significance:
Psychological Outlet:
For soldiers in the trenches, trench art provided a means of dealing with boredom, stress, and the horrors of war. It offered a way to engage in creative activity and find a sense of purpose amidst the devastation.
Soviereing and Commemoration:
Trench art also served as a way to commemorate fallen comrades or create personal souvenirs of the war.
Cultural Exchange:
Some trench art was created for trade or sale, offering a glimpse into the cultural exchange between soldiers and local communities.
Examples of Trench Art:
Decorated Shell Cases:These were a common form of trench art, often decorated with pastoral scenes, portraits of loved ones, or patriotic symbols.
Ashtrays, Letter Knives, and Other Utilitarian Items:
These functional objects, crafted from war materials, served a practical purpose while also being a reminder of the conflict.
Sculptures and Carvings:
Some soldiers, skilled in metalworking or woodworking, created intricate sculptures and carvings using war materials.
Drawings and Paintings:
Soldiers also documented their experiences through drawings and paintings on available surfaces, like trench walls. Legacy and Contemporary Relevance:
Museums and Collections:
Trench art has gained recognition as a valuable historical artifact, with examples found in museums and private collections around the world.
Historical Insights:
Trench art offers valuable insights into the lives, experiences, and emotions of those involved in war.
Art and History:
The art form continues to inspire artists and historians, serving as a reminder of the human cost of war and the resilience of the human spirit.