British WWI Trench Art Brass Vase, Mounted 18 Pounder Shell Case and Plaque (A90)

This unusual and historically significant WW1 British brass 18-pounder shell, dated 1916, has been halved and mounted on a wooden plaque — a moving reminder of the Battle of the Somme and a genuine piece of First World War history.

Perfect for displaying dried flowers or remembrance poppies, the plaque is engraved:
“From the Battlefields of the Somme 1914–1918.”

This is authentic trench art, a term used for the decorative and functional objects crafted by soldiers and support troops during or shortly after the war. Many such pieces were made from salvaged shell casings and materials found on the front lines, often transformed by those with mechanical skill and a need for creativity amid the hardship of war.

This particular piece was later mounted and signed in 1980 by a French craftsman, whose signature appears on the back. It was sourced directly from a traditional market in the Somme region of France, close to where the original battles took place.

A unique gift for a militaria collector or a deeply symbolic piece of remembrance décor, this solid and genuine artefact carries over a century of history.

🪖 Details:

• Era: Dated 1916 (First World War)
• Origin: Somme, France
• Material: Brass shell with wooden mounting plaque
• Plaque inscription: From the Battlefields of the Somme 1914–1918
• Maker’s note: Signed on back (1980) by French craftsman who mounted it
• Condition: Good, solid vintage condition with light dents and marks consistent with age (over 100 years old)

📏Dimensions:

• Height (mount): 40 cm
• Width: 16.5 cm
• Unpacked weight: 1.15 kg

🌿 Please Remember:
Each piece in our collection is hand-sourced from French brocante markets and reflects the craftsmanship and history of France. As with all genuine vintage and antique items, this shell shows signs of its long life and story — imperfections that enhance its authenticity and character.

✨ More to Discover:
Browse our website shop below for over 300 handpicked vintage French homewares and garden ideas or visit our dedicated Militaria Section here, all sourced directly from French markets or militaria fairs. 

🏠 Visit our shop home page here:
www.allthingsfrenchstore.co.uk

🚚 Shipping Information:
FREE UK Delivery - All orders include fully tracked shipping at no extra cost. Not going to be home? At checkout select 'Ship to pickup point' to send your order to a local Parcel shop & collect at a time to suit you.