Brass Trench Art with Wooden Base

• Material: Brass, mounted on a wooden base.
• Dimensions: The brass piece measures approximately 4 inches in height, with the wooden base measuring around 5 inches by 3 inches.
• Markings: The bottom of the brass piece is marked with "LORENZ," "KARLSRUHE," "1886," and "MAI."
• Condition: The item appears to be in good condition, with some patina and minor scratches, which are typical for items of this age.

Historical Context: Trench art refers to items made by soldiers, prisoners of war, or civilians from the materials available to them during wartime. The marking "1886" suggests this piece could be from around that time, likely made by a soldier or civilian during a conflict, possibly the Franco-Prussian War or pre-World War I period.

Sources for Comparison:

• Etsy: Various listings of trench art items for comparison.
• eBay: Auction and sale prices for similar items.
• Military Trader: Articles and price guides on trench art and military collectibles.

Conclusion

This brass trench art piece, with its historical significance and clear markings, is a valuable collectible.