*British / Commonwealth, Dated 1937, 3-Inch 20 CWT Mk II Anti-Aircraft Shell Case Trench Art Vase, VAEL, New Zealand Broad Arrow Marked*
An original brass artillery shell case skillfully converted into a trench art vase, formed from a British/Commonwealth 3-inch 20 CWT Mk II anti-aircraft gun cartridge case dated 1937. The neck has been hand-cut and carefully shaped into a decorative flared petal rim, creating an attractive tulip-form silhouette typical of inter-war and Second World War period trench art work.
The base retains its original ordnance headstamps including “3 II”, denoting compatibility with the Mark II variant of the British QF 3-inch 20 CWT anti-aircraft gun system, together with “20 CWT” and a separate “V” mark identifying the cartridge case itself as the Mark V pattern. Additional markings include “VAEL”, the manufacturer code for Vickers Armstrong, Elswick Works, Newcastle upon Tyne — one of Britain’s foremost heavy engineering and ordnance producers — together with “1937”, “CF”, and “LOT 289”. British/Commonwealth broad arrow ownership marks are present alongside a broad arrow over “NZ”, confirming New Zealand military service or stores association. The vase displays a warm aged brass tone with naturally developed patina throughout.
Approx. Measurements – 42 cm tall x 11.5 cm base diameter.
History Note:
The British QF 3-inch 20 CWT anti-aircraft gun was one of the principal heavy anti-aircraft weapons used throughout the inter-war period and into the early years of the Second World War across Britain and Commonwealth forces. Cartridge cases from obsolete or expended ammunition were frequently repurposed by soldiers, veterans, and civilians into decorative trench art items, particularly vases, umbrella stands, and fireplace ornaments.
The “20 CWT” designation refers to the approximate weight of the gun barrel and breech assembly (20 hundredweight), distinguishing it from earlier or heavier variants, while the “II” marking identifies the Mark II pattern of the gun system. The “VAEL” manufacturer code stands for Vickers Armstrong, Elswick Works, Newcastle upon Tyne — one of Britain’s foremost heavy engineering and armaments manufacturers responsible for major naval artillery and anti-aircraft ordnance production during the period.
The broad arrow over “NZ” marking indicates New Zealand military ownership or inspection, adding desirable Commonwealth interest and likely overseas service association to the piece.
*Condition*
The vase remains structurally solid and displays well. The upper rim has been neatly hand-cut and folded into petal-shaped sections with some minor irregularities consistent with period hand workmanship. Surface wear, scratches, oxidation spotting, and age-related patina are present throughout. The base markings remain clearly legible. An attractive and substantial Commonwealth trench art display piece. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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