Shell fragment, metal, used as charm, German, 1910-1914, from Lovett collection

This fragment from an artillery shell (in the background) was carried as an amulet by a German soldier. Amulets of all shapes and forms were and still are considered by some people to provide good luck and protection against illness and danger. The amulet was part of the collection of Edward Lovett (1852-1933), a researcher and collector of folk traditions, and was bought by Henry Wellcome in 1930. It is shown here with two other First World War amulets (A79870 and A79871).