A unique trench art decorative cup crafted from a repurposed brass shell casing, featuring a distinctive scalloped rim and two flat, C-scroll shaped handles, resting on its original shell base.

• Markings:
• Provenance:
• Material: Appears to be brass or a brass alloy shell casing.
• Decorative Details: Scalloped upper rim, likely formed by crimping or cutting the original casing; two flat, C-scroll or heart-shaped handles, possibly cut from sheet metal, attached to the upper body.
• Colour & Surface: Dull, tarnished coppery-brass tone on the body; dark, oxidized interior; greenish-blue patina on the base ring, consistent with aged brass or copper.
• Condition: Significant surface wear, scratches, and heavy tarnishing/oxidation throughout, particularly on the interior and base; evidence of hand-crafting and modification from its original form.

History

This piece is characteristic of 'Trench Art,' a form of folk art created by soldiers, prisoners of war, or civilians during wartime, often from repurposed military materials like shell casings. Such items were frequently made as souvenirs or gifts, reflecting the ingenuity and resourcefulness of their creators, particularly during periods like World War I or World War II. The scalloped rim and applied handles transform a military artifact into a decorative object, now collected for its historical and artistic significance.