WWII Belgian Aluminum Trench Art Treasure Box | Engraved "Guerre" & "Rita"

A beautifully handcrafted World War II Belgian aluminum treasure box, fashioned from repurposed military mess gear and decorated with intricate hand engraving. Pieces like this are classic examples of European trench art—functional military equipment transformed into keepsakes through remarkable craftsmanship.

The cylindrical box features a domed lid with a secure bayonet-style closure. Hand engraved floral motifs wrap the body and lid, while "GUERRE" (French for war) and "RITA" are engraved around the rim, suggesting the piece was made as a deeply personal memento during or shortly after wartime service.

The underside retains the Belgian maker's mark:

FONSON / BRUX

indicating manufacture from Belgian military equipment.

Details

• Original WWII-era Belgian aluminum trench art box
• Constructed from Belgian military mess gear
• Bayonet-lock lid
• Hand engraved floral decoration throughout
• Engraved "GUERRE" and "RITA"
• Belgian maker's mark: FONSON / BRUX
• Approx. 4.5 cm diameter × 6.5 cm tall

A wonderful addition to any military, trench art, or European wartime collection.

Condition: Very good vintage condition with age-appropriate wear, light surface marks, and a functioning locking lid. Please review all photographs as they form part of the description.