RESTORING WWI TRENCH ART: RENEWING ARTILLERY SHELL VASES

The fully restored WWI trench art artillery shell vases, showcasing intricate details and elegant craftsmanship.

Close-up view of the detailed engravings on the WWI artillery shell vase, emphasizing the restored brilliance of the brass.

THE RESTORATION OF WWI TRENCH ART ARTILLERY SHELL VASES AT CHELSEA PLATING COMPANY

At Chelsea Plating Company, we are passionate about restoring historical artifacts to their former beauty. Recently, we had the opportunity to restore two WWI artillery shells that were intricately engraved and transformed into vases, commonly known as "trench art."

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF TRENCH ART

Trench art refers to objects created by soldiers, prisoners of war, or civilians using materials available in war zones, such as artillery shells, bullets, and other military items. These pieces were often made during periods of inactivity, providing a creative outlet and a way to pass the time. The restored artillery shell vases are not just decorative items; they are poignant reminders of the resilience and ingenuity of those who lived through the war. Each piece tells a story, capturing the essence of a historical era.

THE RESTORATION PROCESS

The restoration process began with a thorough assessment of the artillery shell vases' condition. Decades of wear and exposure had dulled their once-brilliant appearance. Our team carefully cleaned the shells to remove dirt, grime, and any remnants of old finishes. This preparation was crucial for the success of the subsequent refinishing steps. Using gentle cleaning solutions and specialized brushes, we meticulously removed layers of grime and corrosion. This stage is essential to reveal the true state of the underlying metal and to prepare it for the precise application of polishing techniques.

POLISHING AND DETAILING

Once cleaned, the brass elements of the vases were ready for polishing. Polishing brass requires a delicate balance of pressure and technique to achieve a radiant finish without damaging the intricate engravings. Our skilled artisans painstakingly polished the brass to bring out its natural luster while preserving the detailed trench art designs. The polishing process involves multiple stages, using different grades of abrasives and polishing compounds to achieve a mirror-like finish. Our artisans' steady hands and keen eyes ensured a flawless application that adhered perfectly to the contours of the brass.

FINAL TOUCHES AND INSPECTION

After polishing, the vases underwent a final inspection to ensure the finish was flawless. Any minor adjustments were made to perfect the appearance. The restored vases now gleamed with the same brilliance they would have had during WWI, ready to reclaim their place as significant historical artifacts. Our final touches included careful buffing to smooth out any tiny imperfections and applying a protective clear coat to safeguard the finish. This attention to detail ensures that the vases will remain stunning and resilient for years to come.

CONTACT CHELSEA PLATING COMPANY

​Do you have a historical artifact that needs expert restoration? Trust Chelsea Plating Company to bring it back to its original condition with care and precision. Contact us today to discuss your restoration needs.

RECEIVE ESTIMATE

HOME