Direct from Germany. Very nice, original & unusual item. Here;
Patriotic Brosche, grabenarbeit* / brooch, Grave Work (trench art).
Metal, probably brass, with a gold wash. With a distinctive shaped patterned front, from a shell drive band. Measures approx. 40mm x 15mm,
The centre has been cut out. Mounted on a bar, is a mini, enamelled, 1914 Iron Cross. With sprigs of Oak leaves & acorns.
On the reverse is an applied pin & clasp.
Good, used condition, usual minor marks/ware, with nice patina.
See scans for details.
Happy to combine postage.
If you buy multiple items, PLEASE wait for a combined invoice.
*Translation from German Wikipedia;
The term Grabenarbeit / Grave Work ( also: grave art ) refers to a reworked item from diverted ammunition supply. Especially in the position and Grave struggles of First World War many soldiers took advantage of waiting times to produce souvenirs from spent ammunition, for family members at home.
This Militaria are now collector's items. In most cases, they were Bullet casings with Calibres of 40 mm and Cartridges with diameters up to 150 mm, fashioned into rings , bracelets , pendants, shot glasses , lighters , ashtrays , cigarette boxes, candle holders or vases. Frequently, shell fragments have been processed - mainly to knives or letter openers .
Pieces of used ordnance were also collected from the battlefield & sent back to Germany to be turned in to patriotic items by jewellers, to be sold to raise money for the war effort.