WWI Remembrance – Battle of Verdun

This inkstand, set on a marble base, is a commemorative piece for the WWI Battle of Verdun. The central feature is a helmet, which serves as the cover for the inkwell, placed on a base resembling fortified structures or trenches. On the left side, there’s a raised depiction of a cross. The front facade has inscribed text in French:

• “À LA MÉMOIRE DES SOLDATS FRANÇAIS MORTS DEBOUT LE FUSIL EN MAIN DANS CETTE TRANCHEE” (In memory of the French soldiers who died standing with their rifles in hand in this trench).

To the right is the city’s coat of arms. This inkstand pays tribute to the French soldiers who fought in one of the longest and most brutal battles of WWI.

Synopsis of the Battle of Verdun

The Battle of Verdun was a major engagement during World War I, fought between German and French forces from February 21 to December 18, 1916. It is known for being one of the longest, bloodiest, and most ferocious battles of the war. Here are some key points:

• Location: Verdun-sur-Meuse, France.
• Duration: Nearly 10 months.
• Casualties: Approximately 400,000 French and 350,000 German casualties, with around 300,000 killed.
• Significance: The battle symbolized French determination and resilience, encapsulated by the phrase “Ils ne passeront pas” (They shall not pass), famously associated with General Robert Nivelle.
• Outcome: The French successfully repulsed the German offensive, maintaining control of Verdun.