France - Military accessories - 1915

Splendid and rare coordinated and mirror-like pair of vases in "Trench Art" (Art of the Trenches) dating from the First World War (1914-1918). The pieces were crafted by hand by soldiers at the front starting from historic French 75 mm De Campagne artillery shells (75 DEC / Mle 1897). The two shells form a commemorative set of great historical and evocative impact, finely worked in repoussé and hammering with decorations in a natural theme (grape leaves and grape clusters). Each piece bears engraved one of the famous and hotly contested locations on the Western Front: • First shell: bears the embossed inscription "CHAMPAGNE" • Second shell: bears the embossed inscription "REIMS" Technical Details and Stamps on the Base: The bases of the shells present clearly legible arsenal marks that certify their absolute period authenticity. Notably, one of the two shells features the rare official stamp of the American company Remington U.M.C. with original dating 1916, produced overseas on commission to support the Allied war effort. The other piece bears the classic manufacturing marks of French military arsenals. Condition: Excellent vintage condition and conservation. The metal (solid brass) presents a beautiful and deep patina of the era. The pieces have not been chemically cleaned nor polished in order to preserve historical integrity and collectible value. The interiors show the normal and fascinating signs of time related to the original wartime use.

Estimate:£0.83

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