This lovely little trinket dish could be an ash tray, soap dish, or stand alone art piece featuring what appears to be a First World War German Soldier couple (woman appearing well-dressed) viewed from the front embossed/raised on the front side of the dish.  The man has a stoic stern expression, while the woman has a look of shock.  On the reverse, you see the but of the joke (no pun intended) and why the woman has that expression.  

The underside is a rear view of the same couple (embossed/raised) but this time the soldier clearly is fondling the rear of the woman up her skirt.  Cheeky! 

This item is funny and connotes the risqué German sexualized sense of humour of the times.  The tray itself has a bit of weight to it and features this double-sided design, irregular shape, and sits on a surfaced raised on four points of contact.  It is a perfect showpiece and talking piece that can display small items or become the display itself. 

Other variations of this design are seen on newer pieces with the inscription “The Old Army Game”.  This piece appears to be an older version without any inscription.

If you appreciate vintage art, militaria, or tobacco art (tobacciana), you’ll love this item.