Chris Boonzaier Posted August 28, 2011 Posted August 28, 2011 I am not a huge fan of this kind of stuff, but just bought 2 nice pieces over Ebay. I will post them when they arrive. In the meantime, lets see what you guys have? Best Chris
Mervyn Mitton Posted August 30, 2011 Posted August 30, 2011 Chris - I hope you won't mind me posting two items of British Trench Art - afterall, it was the same War and both sides made some really attractive items. Trench art as we know it, really started in the Boer War (1899-1902) when the troops were static for long periods. I think it was the boredom of the trenches that got men to make things. These two small items were made quite separately and in different places - but, both make use of exactly the same materials. Shows how effective 'word of mouth' can be. They are petrol lighters and make use of a large nut - weld overcoat buttons on both sides and you have the body. Add a wick - with a little brass cover against rain - and a wheel and flint - and you're in business. I have always suspected that the Base Workshops were used to make them - and they were probably sold onto the troops.
Mervyn Mitton Posted August 30, 2011 Posted August 30, 2011 You can easily see the large nut and the button. This was for South African Forces who served in North Africa. The Springbok was our emblem and the wording is in Afrikaans and English.
Mervyn Mitton Posted August 30, 2011 Posted August 30, 2011 The identical reverse - showing another greatcoat button.
Mervyn Mitton Posted August 30, 2011 Posted August 30, 2011 A similar lighter - but British and using buttons from the Royal Engineers.
Mervyn Mitton Posted August 30, 2011 Posted August 30, 2011 Chris - this is a very interesting Topic - would it be possible to open it to run on the British section and be visible to both sets of Members ? Reverse of Royal Engineer's lighter
erickn Posted August 31, 2011 Posted August 31, 2011 Hello Chris, Great idea for a post. Please allow me to post a few images of a rather interesting Taube ("Dove") Monoplane. Sir Mervyn, Jolly good trench Lighter of the Royal Engineers! Artifacts such as these are historic in their own right. Kind regards, Erickn
Mervyn Mitton Posted August 31, 2011 Posted August 31, 2011 Erickn - considering the conditions under which they had to work, it is a lovely little model. The soldier got the shape of the wings just right - and then added the Cross to complete-it. I wonder if anyone has more to show ? Mervyn
Chris Boonzaier Posted September 3, 2011 Author Posted September 3, 2011 Here is some stuff made by German soldiers using large bits of splinter and British ammunition.... An inkwell and pen holder....
Chris Boonzaier Posted September 3, 2011 Author Posted September 3, 2011 Cigar holder with ashtrays using mills bombs... Also has a pocket watch hook
Chris Boonzaier Posted September 3, 2011 Author Posted September 3, 2011 And a very artistic ashtray, with cigar cutter and matchbox holder....
erickn Posted September 3, 2011 Posted September 3, 2011 Wow Chris! These are very creative and very attractive. In post #12, the corner cartridges appear to have been intended to hold candles. The cigar Cutter is a scream. Three very unique and useful artifacts. Thanks for sharing! E.
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