Trench art has existed since ancient times, but it flourished during World War I. It was made by soldiers in the trenches, prisoners of war and civilians caught in the war zone. Using the wastes of war—bullet casings, shrapnel, ordnance casings and pieces of destroyed buildings – those living in a war zone created beautiful and useful items. The various works created included souvenirs, tools, jewelry, vases, candle sticks, cigarette and match cases and ashtrays; whatever form inspired the artist. Soldiers would create items to pass the time and document their activities. Civilians and soldiers created works that they sold, sent home to loved ones or to commemorate battles in which they fought.
This ashtray is made from brass and has a button soldered to the center of the bowl. The button has a crown in the center, laurel leave beneath the crown and “Gott Mit Uns” (God With Us) above the crown. This was the symbol of Imperial Germany. During World War I, this expression was inscribed on the edge of 3- and 5-mark silver and 20-mark gold coins. It was also inscribed on German soldiers’ belt buckles.