Historical information

This cigarette case was made from the plexiglass windscreen of a Japanese Mitsubishi Zero aircraft. Whilst its maker is unknown, its inscription, “Tarakan May 1st 1945” suggests that it was created during the Battle of Tarakan.

Tarakan was a small, oil-rich island off the coast of Borneo which in 1945 was held by the Japanese. The battle, code named Operation Oboe One, began when Australian forces landed on May 1st 1945, and continued until June 21st. 240 Australians died during the conflict.

The term ‘Trench art’ describes objects made from the debris and by-products of warfare. Reasons for making trench art varied, from creating mementos of battles to passing time or mitigating the effects of warfare.

Significance

This object has historic significance at a national level due to its association with World War Two. As an example of trench art, it makes an important contribution to our understanding of Australian soldiers’ experience of the war.

This object is an example of skilled craftsmanship and has artistic and aesthetic significance due to its detailed engraving of a beach scene.

Unlike the majority of trench art, which was made from used ordnance, it is made from the windscreen of a Mitsubishi Zero aircraft and therefore is comparatively rare.

Physical description

Cigarette Case made from the windscreen of a Japanese Zero aircraft

Inscriptions & markings

"Tarakan May 1st 1945" "A-F-B"
Engraved beach