With a nuanced balance of historical narrative and sculptural presence, this authentic World War I brass vessel brings immediate architectural depth to a space. Crafted from a 1901 French 75mm artillery shell casing, the piece was transformed around 1915 using classical repoussé and chasing techniques, featuring a hand-embossed cartouche commemorating Mont-Saint-Éloi—a historic high point in the Pas-de-Calais region of France.
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, the turned-brass design has evolved into a versatile design piece. Display it as a sculpture, fill it with dried botanicals, or use it as a warm metallic counterpoint to modern ceramics and art.
Sourced in Northport, New York.
Dimensions: 3.5'' Base, 2.9'' Opening at top, 13'' Diameter at widest point.
