Posted 13 years ago
scottvez
(977 items)
The trench art necklace was constructed from aircraft plexiglass that was cut into a heart shape and then had an Army Air Corps branch insignia attached.
The branch insignia has sterling marked on the back and this has its original era chain still attached.
This type of trench art was popular in the Pacific Theater. I have several with engraved Australian Sterling Coins inset in the plexiglass.
The term TRENCH ART encompasses the entire genre of soldier and civilian work with WAR REFUSE without maker or war limitations.
Yes, the term is a misnomer, but it accurately captures the sentiment of the genre-- making something beautiful or utilitarian out of refuse!
Scott
I love your trench art, Scott, but this one just stands out!!
Esther-- the heart motif is nice. Here are two other Pacific theater wing sweetheart items that also have aircraft plexiglass in the construction:
http://www.collectorsweekly.com/stories/19807-ww2-sweetheart-trench-art-wings?in=user
Scott
This piece in particular makes me realize that the men and women that are called to war come from all walks of life, and stop living free during their tours of duty.
I mean, scratching a few flowers on a shell casing or soldering some bullets and coins together is something we all can do (better or worse), but making a heart out of plexiglass, rounding the edges, and buffing it like that, drilling the holes without breaking it, takes a tradesman.
I don't know if I am getting my idea through, I hope you get what I'm trying to say.
Thanks again Esther, as always I appreciate your insightful comments.
These items were typically made by craftsmen in shops. I have seen several photographs of shipboard Navy shops and photographs of SEABEE shops where these were produced. These men had the equipment as part of their jobs and the "war refuse" readily available. They made these items as souvenirs to sell and trade with other military men.
In general, most collectors prefer WW1 trench art. The quality of metal work on shells is typically much better than what is seen in WW2 era examples (as always there are exceptions). That can be attributed to modernization, decline of hand work and rise of the assembly lines as the standard throughout the early part of the 20th century.
Scott
Thanks Kerry and BeauxPurdy.
Thanks jason!
scott
Thanks gypsy.
scott
Thanks for looking blevin.
scott
I actually have one just like it, My father was in the air force. He made this for my Mother... back in 1942.... it brings tears to my eyes because it hangs right beside my bed..
Fantastic that you have one with a family connection!
Please share yours when you have the time.
scott