French Art Appraisal

WWI French Artillery Shell Trench Art Vase from Verdun

This item is a piece of trench art, meticulously crafted from a World War I French artillery shell casing. Standing approximately 13 inches tall with a base diameter of 3.75 inches, the shell has been transformed into a decorative vase or container. The primary material is brass, exhibiting a rich, golden hue with areas of natural patina and some surface scratching consistent with its age and history. The top rim of the shell has been intricately flared and scalloped to create a floral or petal-like design, demonstrating skilled craftsmanship. The body of the casing is adorned with finely detailed, chased or engraved patterns, featuring circular motifs and possibly stylized foliage or symbolic imagery that appears to be hand-executed. The base of the shell retains its original form, a distinctive concave shape with fluted accents leading down to the foot. While no specific maker's marks are discernible from the provided image, the provenance from Verdun, France, and its material suggest its origin as a WWI French artillery shell. The overall condition appears good for an object of its age, with evidence of surface wear and natural discoloration that adds to its historical character. This piece embodies the ingenuity and perseverance often seen in trench art, where military ordnance was repurposed into objects of beauty or utility during or immediately after conflict, making it a significant historical artifact.