Throughout the First World War, the Gallé Establishments remained remarkably active, producing pieces that captured the spirit of the times. This beautiful tray, featuring English soldiers wearing the iconic Brodie helmet, dates back to the years 1914-1916, serving as a poignant tribute to the brave British soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice on French soil.
 

In pristine condition, this exquisite tray has been lovingly cleaned and oiled to enhance its natural beauty. The tray is a rare find, only a few have been produced, particularly the soldier trays featuring the iconic British Brodie helmet.
 
The frame is made of beech wood and the marquetry has a combination of rich wood veneers, such as elm, maple, rosewood, walnut.
It measures 70 cm from handle to handle, with a width of 43 cm. Stock number NO503.
 
HISTORY
 
August Herbst was the creator of wood decor at the Gallé Establishments, distinguishing himself in this craft rather than in glass. Herbst hailed from Alsace, born to a German father and an Alsatian mother. As a result, the French authorities classified him as a German national. Despite his flight from Alsace to evade conscription into the German military, he was unjustly deemed a potential threat and, in July 1915, deported to a detention camp for foreign nationals in Villefranche-de-Rouergue, where he endured four long years.
 
Following the war, he assumed the role of chief designer at Gallé Establishments, where he skilfully oversaw the creation of some of the studio’s most ambitious and celebrated landscape vases, including the exquisite Lake of Como series.
 
You will find more about this subject in the literature by Samuel Provost, read http://galle.substack.com
 
POA