Trench Artdecorative Arts Appraisal

Trench Art Artillery Shell Casing Vase

This item is a piece of 'trench art,' specifically a decorative vase crafted from a spent artillery shell casing. It stands approximately 13 inches tall with a base diameter of about 3.75 inches, as indicated by the context. The material appears to be brass, characteristic of military shell casings, exhibiting a warm, aged golden patina that suggests considerable age and handling. The upper portion of the casing, which forms the body of the vase, is intricately decorated with repoussé or engraved patterns, featuring intertwined geometric motifs and possibly stylized symbols or crests, though the exact nature of these patterns is somewhat obscured by the light reflections and resolution. The craftsmanship of these decorations suggests a hand-worked quality, typical of trench art where soldiers often used available tools to create intricate designs. The rim of the vase has been creatively fluted or scalloped, adding to its aesthetic appeal and transforming the utilitarian shell into an ornamental object. Below the main cylindrical body, the casing transitions from its original slightly flared base into a more pronounced, sculpted pedestal-like foot, featuring four distinct concave lobes that flow down to the original flat base of the shell. This reshaping is a clear indication of alteration from its original military purpose. Visible condition issues include expected surface wear consistent with its age and material, such as minor scratches and variations in the patina, but no obvious dents or major damage are apparent. The quality of the embellishment indicates a skilled hand, transforming military ordnance into a unique piece of folk art. Given its nature as trench art, it highly likely dates from World War I or World War II, a period when such modifications were common among soldiers.