In the lead-up to the 23 December 1944 attack on Rochefort, France, during the Battle of the Bulge, Panzer Lehr, one of Germany's elite armored divisions, found itself severely understrength. Only one of its two tank battalions was combat-ready, as the other had been transferred to its parent unit, the 3rd Panzer Division. This diminished fighting force was part of Germany’s last major offensive on the Western Front, an attempt to break through the Allied lines and push back their advances. Despite being a shadow of its former self, Panzer Lehr remained a crucial element in the Ardennes offensive.Rear toolbox lid from Hetzer tank - fragments from this are used as relics on "The Turn to Rochefort" limited edition prints

A tangible relic of this desperate final offensive was discovered in the mid-1990s—a rear toolbox lid from a Jagdpanzer 38, a tank destroyer used by Panzer Lehr. Mounted on the left rear quarter of each vehicle, the toolbox lid is a stark reminder of the ferocity and intensity of the fighting in the Ardennes. Having been buried in the soil for decades, the relic shows significant wear, including heavy pitting and rust, effects of the passage of time in the harsh environment of the battlefield.Rear toolbox lid from Hetzer tank - fragments from this are used as relics on "The Turn to Rochefort" limited edition prints

Each canvas print in this collection includes a fragment removed from this original toolbox lid, offering a unique connection to the history of Panzer Lehr’s involvement in the Battle of the Bulge. The relic serves as a symbol of Germany’s last significant armored thrust in Western Europe, a battle that marked the beginning of the end for the Third Reich’s war effort.Rear toolbox lid from Hetzer tank - fragments from this are used as relics on "The Turn to Rochefort" limited edition prints

Photo of Hetzer tank showing location of rear toolbox

Artist, Craig Tinder, holding Hetzer tank relic that is included in "The Turn to Rochefort" limited edition prints

PREMIUM ALUMINUM

Our newest presentation format delivers exceptional color, contrast, and fine detail on a smooth gloss surface. The result has a luminous quality and clarity that is difficult to fully capture in photographs. Framed aluminum editions are finished in a solid black frame for a clean, contemporary presentation.

TRADITIONAL CANVAS

The original Aces In Action presentation features gallery-wrapped canvas, with framed editions presented in our traditional black floater frame. Canvas offers a classic, textured fine-art presentation and remains available on select Relic Artwork editions while inventory lasts.

AVAILABLE SIZES & FORMATS

• 18" × 12" (45.7 × 30.5 cm) — Premium Aluminum or Canvas; available framed or unframed
  
• 30" × 20" (76.2 × 50.8 cm) — Premium Aluminum or Canvas; framed
  
• 36" × 12" (91.4 × 30.5 cm) — Panoramic Premium Aluminum or Canvas; framed on select artwork
  

READY TO HANG

Every Relic Artwork edition arrives ready to hang. Unframed 18" × 12" editions include a rear wall-mount bracket, while framed editions arrive with hanging hardware installed. No additional framing or mounting is required before display.

Craig Tinder is an artist and historical researcher whose work brings significant moments in military and aviation history to life. For more than 20 years, he has combined detailed research with traditional and digital illustration techniques to create historically accurate artwork for collectors, veterans, museums, and historical organizations.

Craig has been commissioned to create artwork, installations, and memorial projects for museums, military organizations, and historical institutions throughout the United States. His work is held in museum and private collections around the world, reflecting a career built around historical accuracy, craftsmanship, and preserving the stories behind the subjects he depicts.

Every Aces In Action artwork is created by Craig Tinder, making Aces In Action the official home of his historical artwork and collectibles.

Meet Craig Tinder →

SHIPPING

Each Relic Artwork edition is individually handcrafted and completed by Craig Tinder. From engraving and assembling the Artifact Dock to preparing the relic, framing the artwork when selected, and completing the final inspection and packaging, every piece is finished specifically for its collector. Please allow additional time for this hands-on process before your artwork ships.

Gift wrapping is available for Relic Artwork, making it ready for presentation upon arrival.

DISPLAY & CARE

All Relic Artwork arrives ready to display. Unframed 18" × 12" editions include a rear wall-mount bracket, while framed editions arrive with hanging hardware installed.

Premium Relic Artwork editions are designed for long-term display. Keep artwork away from prolonged direct sunlight, excessive moisture, and extreme temperature changes. Dust gently with a clean, soft, dry cloth and avoid household cleaners or abrasive materials on the artwork, frame, relic, or Artifact Dock.