{"product_id":"coupe-papier-ancien-militaire-ww1-lame-aspect-cuivre-poignee-douille","title":"Antique WW1 military letter opener, copper-look blade, shell casing handle","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAFW - Antique France Worldwide\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis antique paper knife features an atypical design, characteristic of objects made from reclaimed military materials. The blade, elongated and slightly curved, boasts a copper finish with a visible patina, testament to its age and use. Its tip is crafted with two asymmetrical cuts, adding an artisanal and singular touch to the object. The blade's surface reveals traces of oxidation and micro-scratches, typical of old pieces handled daily.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe handle of this letter opener is made from a shell casing or cartridge, recognizable by its cylindrical shape and patinated brass hue. The assembly between the blade and the casing shows a clear transition, confirming the use of reclaimed military materials, likely during or after World War I. No markings or inscriptions are visible on the photographed side.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe ensemble displays a harmony of warm metallic tones, ranging from coppery brown to golden yellow, with variations due to oxidation and the wear of time. The general style evokes artisanal trench productions, where soldiers or civilians transformed war relics into utilitarian or decorative objects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe ergonomic shape of the paper knife, combined with the robustness of the handle, suggests regular use for opening correspondence. The manual finish of the blade and the visible irregularities underscore the artisanal authenticity of the piece, typical of the 1914-1918 period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCondition\u003c\/b\u003e: Used item, sold as is. Presence of patina, traces of oxidation, scratches, and signs of use on the blade and handle. No major chips visible on the presented side, overall appearance consistent with an old military object.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDid you know?\u003c\/b\u003e During World War I, many soldiers and civilians made utilitarian or decorative objects from shell casings, bullets, and metal debris recovered from the front. This practice is known as \"trench art,\" and each piece is generally unique, often made by hand with the means at hand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAFW Reassurance\u003c\/b\u003e: Careful packaging, fast and tracked shipping, professional seller specializing in antique and military objects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eKeywords: military letter opener, WW1 trench art, shell casing paper knife, 1914-1918 object, brass letter opener, war souvenir, militaria France, copper letter opener, trench art, soldier's object, antique desk accessory, copper blade\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"AFW","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54329686065479,"sku":"51086-47106f6a-f693-499f-b107-6c5558354728-PA3.87","price":13.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0989\/5152\/8775\/files\/s-l1600_2bfe9b01-2282-40f1-9c70-28fcec8c2f52.jpg?v=1783861028","url":"https:\/\/shop.antiquefranceworldwide.com\/en\/products\/coupe-papier-ancien-militaire-ww1-lame-aspect-cuivre-poignee-douille","provider":"AFW","version":"1.0","type":"link"}