HMS Benbow Trench Art

A solid brass tray, probably fashioned from a shell casing with ornate scalloped edges and a fine engraved image of a part women/part bird with the legend HMS Benbow 1924. Benbow was a 25, 000 Battle Ship built for the Royal Navy in 1913 and she served throughout WWI including the battle of Jutland where she escaped any damage. She was paid off and broken up in 1931. This item was no doubt crafted by a crew member in 1924 when she was serving in the Mediterranean as a unique gift for his wife, girlfriend or family member. Measures 5.5" (34 cm)