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| Letter Opener Carved from Animal Bone by Prisoner at Notorious Wittenberg, Germany, POW Camp |
The Fitzwilliam Museum at Cambridge University has been running a fascinating program since February that includes many First World War artifacts. Titled War Craft, the exhibit focuses on what artworks and objects made in times of war reveal about the pain, peril, and life-changing experiences of conflict. The specimens presented range from "high" to "trench" art. The free program at Gallery 14 runs through 23 August 2026. Shown here are some of the pieces from the First World War.
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| Fitzwilliam Museum |
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| Highlanders Resting at the Front by John Singer Sargent |
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| British Soldier's Carving on a French Franc |
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| Paul Nash’s Rain, Lake Zillebeke |
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| Tobacco Holder Found in Damascus |
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| C.R.W. Nevinson’s That Cursèd Wood |
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| Cigarette Lighter Made from Coins |
Thanks to Paul Albright for bringing this exhibit to my attention. MH
Which wood is the "Cursed Wood"?
ReplyDeleteThe artist was inspired by Siegfried Sassoon's poem "At Carnoy" which would indicate it's a reference to the several woods fought for at the Somme battlefield. Sassoon, himself, was involved with the fight for Mametz Wood.
DeleteSuch amazing and poignant pieces. Thanks for the post.
ReplyDeleteBest wishes, James