Equal parts historic artifact and sculptural object, this World War I relic adds architectural depth to a space. Utilizing a 1901 French 75mm artillery shell casing as its foundation, the brass vessel was created around 1915 using classical repoussé and chasing techniques. An engraved cartouche commemorates Mont-Saint-Éloi, a historic high point in France’s Pas-de-Calais region.
To dive a bit deeper, the headstamp on the underside reveals a complete manufacturing history, identifying the casing as a French 75mm artillery shell produced in November 1901 (NOV B / 1901) before seeing service in World War I. Stamped into the brass are state arsenal production and foundry batch codes, including d53 and 117 for lot sequences, MAT 31 for metal composition control, and A.VS representing a French state construction facility (such as the Atelier de Construction de Vincennes). Completing the base is the mark MA 52, denoting a Manufacture d'Armes military foundry along with its official technical inspector number, all encircling the original threaded brass percussion primer at the center.
Transcending its military roots, this trench art vessel has evolved into a versatile design piece. It stands effortlessly on its own as a sculptural object, acts as a vase for dried branches, or provides a grounded metallic contrast alongside pale ceramics.
Sourced in Northport, New York.
Dimensions: 10" height, 13" diameter at widest point, 3.5" base, 2.9" opening at top.
