rittmeister@earthlink.netDer
Rittmeister Militaria, LLC. Imperial German Merchandise Page 25: Flags, Kriegsflagges,
Table Flags, Banners and Accessories.
Updated 4 March 2010.
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Over the years we have brought you some unusual items associated with either Kaiser Wilhelm II or his household. Today we are offering four automobile pennants (flags or standards) from the Kaiser’s household auto detachment. During Kaiser Wilhelm II’s reign, automobile transportation was still in its infancy. A horse drawn carriage remained his preferred vehicle for certain special occasions, but Wilhelm II’s affinity for motor cars increased the longer he sat on the throne. Then, as now, a high-level official (particularly the head-of-state) displayed his nation’s flag on his chauffeur-driven limousine’s bumper. These are exactly the type of item with which we are tempting you today.
20-224 FOUR ROYAL AUTOMOBILE PENNANTS - KAISER WILHELM II’S HOUSEHOLD.
1) Pennant of the Kaiser’s Standard. In 1870-71 when Prussia’s König
Wilhelm I became Kaiser Wilhelm I of Germa
ny, a special standard (Kaiserstandarte) was created for him. Only three men ever used the flag: Kaiser Wilhelm I,
Kaiser Friedrich III, and Kaiser Wilhelm II. This special standard was always
seen with Kaiser Wilhelm II. It is common to see photographs of the Kaiser.
Very nearby you will see a Regiment der Garde du Corps trooper carrying
the Kaiserstandarte. Remember that the President of the United States
of America has a special flag, which plays a key part in all his appearances.
Our automobile Kaiserstandarte measures 16 1/4" x 17." It weighs
3.5 ounces, as
it is made of substantial, heavy cotton. It is two-sided. Its background is
yellow. Its center displays a black Iron Cross trimmed in white. Extending
down from the top arm of the Iron Cross is a multicolored Hohenzollern Crown.
Directly below the crown is a shield presenting a multicolored eagle. Coming
down from the Crown and encircling the eagle is a Black Eagle Collar. (The
latter was a very rare order that was conferred on every House of
Hohenzollern’s son). The word "Gott" appears on the Iron Cross’s 12
o‘cloc k arm. "Mit" appears on the 9 o’clock arm. "Uns" appears on the 3
o’clock arm, and 1870 shows up on the 6 o’clock arm. The standard’s final
fillip is the presence of a Hohenzollern Crown and three eagles on each of its
four corners. The pennant sports a total of four Hohenzollern Crowns and
twelve eagles.
As previously mentioned, the Kaiserstandarte is two-sided. One side has
a small moth hole that measures perhaps half an inch. On the other side in the
upper left corner is a horizontal slit. It measures 3" in length on the yellow
background, just above the red Hohenzollern Crown. From the horizontal slit, a
vertical slit measuring 1 1/4" extends down to the Hohenzollern Crown. This
standard is magnificent and very important, historically.
2)
House of Hohenzollern Pennant/Flag. This pennant
represents the House of Hohenzollern. I am not sure on what other occasions it
was used, but I imagine it was used visiting Burg Hohenzollern (located
within the Grand Duchy of Baden). The standard measures 14" x 16 1/4," and weighs
3.2
ounces. (It is not nearly as heavy as the Kaiserstandarte). It has a
white background. It bears the House of Hohenzollern’s multicolored
Coat-of-Arms, along with the German motto "Nichts Ohne Gott (Nothing
Without God)." This standard is in excellent condition. It shows only
minor soiling from its one-hundred-years of age.
3) Saxe-Altenburg Pennant/Flag. This is a variation
of either Ernst I or Ernst II’s Ducal Standard from Saxe-Altenbur
g. The latter
was a relatively small Saxon Duchy, which fielded a single infantry regiment.
The standard measures 16 1/4" x 16," and weighs 3.2 ounces. It features alternating
black (five) and yellow (five) horizontal stripes. A green diagonal crenelated
stripe stretches from its upper left corner to its lower right corner. It
represents a crown (if the crown were cut, then rolled out flat). It is a
two-sided piece. Its colors are very vibrant. It is a very handsome and
decorative standard, in top condition.
4)
Imperial Austrian (House of Hapsburg) Pennant/Flag.
This is a standard flown from a limousine’s bumper when an Austrian royal
family member or other important Austrian official was present. The pennant
measures 14 3/4" x 16" and weighs 3.5 ounces. It sports a yellow background, with a
white, red, yellow, and black border around it. In the standard’s center is a
multicolored, double-headed Austrian (Hapsburg) Eagle, mounted on a single
body. Each Eagle’s head is crowned. In addition, a Hapsburg Crown appears
above the twin heads, complete with the flowing twin ribbons of its royal
stole. A kollar extends down across the Eagle’s chest. He is grasping a
sword and scepter in his right talons. He clutches an orb in his left.
The pennant is two-sided. Some staining or "bleeding" of
the black shows on one side. It is not as noticeable on the other. I can
detect no mothing or other damage.
This is a truly magnificent set of pennants. The Kaiserstandarte was
used solely to honor Kaiser Wilhelm II. The other three honored royals and
other important officials from Hohenzollern, Saxe-Altenburg and Austria. We
are thrilled that we can present them to you today.
$12,995.00
25-58 BANNER - 1. GARDE-REGIMENT zu FUß. This is a most unusual, high-quality banner for 1. Garde-Regiment zu Fuß. The regiment was the most elite and important in the entire Prussian Army. It was founded in 1688. It was garrisoned in Potsdam where, like all Garde-Regiments, it was attached to the GardeKorps. Virtually all the officers were the cream of German royalty and nobility. Every Prussian Prince was enrolled in the regiment and held status as an á la Suite officer. From the rank of a Leutnant à la Suite as a youngster, to Generaloberst in the rank of Generalfeldmarschall à la Suite as an elder Prince, all were represented. The regiment’s à la Suite list included 25+ royals! They had more than any other single regiment in the German Army. By contrast, the Regiment der Garde du Corps had a single officer as an à la Suite during all of WW I. The regiment differed vastly from all other infantry regiments (except one) because they wore mitres in addition to pickelhauben. Even their pickelhauben were unique. Theirs was the Prussian Army’s only infantry regiment to wear fluted spikes. (The fluted spike was used sparingly by Prussian and Bavarian and Hessen-Darmstadt officers. It also was used on ALL general officers’ pickelhauben). Banners like this were displayed primarily in two ways. The first was as a wall decoration at the Offizier Casino (Officers’ Club). The second (though somewhat less likely) was at a veteran’s organization meeting place. The banner’s attributes are spectacular. It is fabricated from silk and satin. Its measurements are 38 3/4" x 42." First, this banner is very similar to the regimental standards (colors), that were prized and defended by every regiment. A regiment’s standard was bestowed by its head-of-state (Kaiser, King, Grand Duke, Duke, Prince, etc.) The regiment marched everywhere with the regimental standard flying proudly at its head. It charged into battle not only beneath its national flag, but its regimental standard, as well. To lose the "colors" was a disgrace and an offense, not only to the regiment, but to the head-of-state! This held true not just in Germany, but in Great Britain and most of Imperial Europe. The "colors" were almost treated as sacred. Today, even a standard in marginal condition from any of the old-line German Army infantry regiments (i.e., created before 1897) fetches $20,000 on the open market. I cannot even imagine what the 1. Garde-Regiment zu Fuß’s original regimental standard would fetch today – if it was available. I do not think that $100,000 (depending on condition) would be unreasonable. Gold bullion braid extends across the banner’s top. Ten brass loops are attached so it can be hung from a wall. As previously mentioned, the obverse’s body is made from silk and/or satin. The banner’s reverse is backed with muslin. In the banner’s center is a wreath constructed of ultra-high-quality gold and yellow bullion. A fantastic Hohenzollern Eagle is in its center. The Eagle is black. It is embroidered so that you can see the details on the wing feathers! A fine black thread was used to stitch the Eagle. Atop the Eagle’s head is a bullion Hohenzollern Crown. In his talons he grasps a sword and a bundle of thunderbolts. Below the Eagle is a teal silk bandeau on which is lettered "Pro Gloria et Patria (For Glory and Country)." This simple motto sums up what the Imperial German Period was all about: "For Glory and Country." Please note that the central area just described shows some very minor shredding or "running," as happens with silk. This occurs due to a combination of age and the weight of the Eagle resting on the fabric background. Each of the four corners displays a yellow bullion wreath. Within that wreath is a beautifully-sewn Garde Star. The star’s center shows a Black Eagle. You will see this emblem in the center of any officer’s pickelhauben. The banner’s left quarter exhibits some previous water staining that runs the banner’s length from top to bottom. The same staining can be seen on its muslin backing. If you have a wall large enough to display it in your collecting room, the banner could make a bold statement about your hobby. We are very excited about this piece. Please take some time to look at the attached photographs. You will see how Imperial Germany portrayed its might and glory to its native sons, and the world. $5,295.00
This is an incredible standard/banner that was used on Kaiserliche Marine vessels. The banner proclaimed the presence of a Prinz of the House of Hohenzollern on board. Three Hohenzollern Princes are the most likely to have had this particular flag flown for them. The senior of the three was Großadmiral Prinz Heinrich (1862-1929). He was Kaiser Wilhelm II’s (1859-1941) younger brother. The second was Kaiser Wilhelm II’s son, Prinz Adalbert (1884-1948). The final prince was Prinz Heinrich’s son, Prinz Waldemar (1889-1945). That said, if ANY Hohenzollern Prinz were visiting a ship (even if he served in the Army), this flag would have correctly flown to honor and recognize him. The standard measures a whopping 6’ 11"(83") x 6’ 6"(78.") The banner’s center sports a large Hohenzollern Eagle within a shield. Below that is an important symbol of Prussian royalty, the Black Eagle Collar. [An excellent representative of the Collar resides at Haus Doorn, Kaiser Wilhelm II’s residence-in-exile, in the Netherlands. The last example I saw on the market, which had belonged to the King of Bulgaria, sold with its presentation case for more than $100,000!] Above it all sits a red and gold Hohenzollern Crown. The entire arrangement is superimposed on a large Iron Cross measuring 5' 11" (71") x 6' 6"(78.") Two more smaller Hohenzollern Crowns appear to the right of the shield. The upper left and lower right corners feature smaller Hohenzollern Eagles. Two repair patches show in the upper and lower right corners. No tearing or rips are apparent, although substantial fading has occurred from exposure to the elements. The standard’s right side displays a lanyard and other fittings by which it can be attached to a ship’s halyard. Normally, members of the royal house only visited battleships and battle cruisers, so typically one would not see this banner on a small vessel. The flag is somewhat similar to the Kaiser’s Standard, but some differences exist. Its overall condition is average, or a bit better. This is not an unused, or mint flag. It has seen service. It exhibits the expected wear a cotton item such as this experiences when exposed to salt air, salt water, smoke, etc. It is a great item for any royal or naval collection. $3,495.00
20-176 NAVAL STANDARD FOR A PRINZ OF THE HOUSE OF HOHENZOLLERN.
25-76
LANDWEHR-VEREIN BANNER - PRUSSIA.
s the
largest veteran’s group for men who had served in the German Army. The
organization had regional and local chapters all around Germany. Over the
years we have offered veterans’ badges from the Landwehr-Verien from
these various cities
(Please go to
our "Badges" Merchandise Page for a sampling of these badges ).
Today we are offering a wonderful wall banner from the
Landwehr-Verein. It measures 49 1/4" x 39 1/2." Its primary motif is a
magnificent black Hohenzollern Eagle in the center. The Eagle is embroidered
with black silk thread on a cream-colored fabric background of cotton twill
or perhaps rough satin. A black satin band at the banner’s top lists "Landwehr-Verien"
in gold satin letters outlined with gold-embroidered thread. A thick band of
gold filigreed thread borders the bottom of the black band. The Eagle is
enclosed within a frame of the gold filigreed thread, which forms a sort of
Art Deco pattern. The thick band of filigreed gold thread is repeated at the
banner’s bottom. The Eagle is accented with a number of gold embroidered
touches, including his beak, the royal cypher on its chest, and a very
elaborate pattern running out onto its wings. It also wears a fantastic
embroidered Hohenzollern Crown embroidered in gold, with red, white and blue
accents. The same is true of the magnificent orb and scepter it clutches in
its claws. The banner is excellent condition, particularly when one
considers its age. Its front is practically flawless. It has a plain, soft
cotton backing. Hangers are in place on the banner’s top so it can easily be
hung up. This is quite a find!
$2,495.00
25-66 XDK INFANTERIE-REGIMENT STANDARD.
the standards (regimental flags)
are one of the more interesting stories of Imperial German Militaria. The
history and honor of any regiment were tied to its regimental banners. Each
infantry regiment was composed of three battalions, and ten to twelve
companies. Each battalion in the regiment had its own standard and standard
bearer (Fahnenträger), who proudly carried his battalion’s flag. It
was a great honor to do so. To begin with, the man usually was a senior NCO.
He was attended by two battalion officers. During Napoleonic times, for
example, the absolute worst fate any combatant nations’ battalion or
regiment could suffer was to lose its standard to the enemy in battle.
Defeat was bad enough, but losing a standard was a total catastrophe. The
dishonor to that battalion/regiment was incalculable. The
battalion/regiment’s commander would be seriously reconsidered by his
superiors for this terrible event. It could well lead to a military career’s
end.
The pomp and ceremony around a regimental standard began with its award to
the battalion/regiment. During Kaiser Wilhelm II’s time, the awarding of
such flags was a major function. The Kaiser personally issued the flag to
the battalion/regiment. An assortment of medallions on the flag pole
commemorated the award and other important unit events. The flag pole was
also decorated with a special streamer listing the year and other basic
information about the regiment. Furthermore, special streamers were attached
for any of the regiment’s battle honors. This included battles from the
Napoleonic Wars (Waterloo and campaigns in Spain and Portugal were
especially prized), the 1864 Danish-Prussian War, the 1866 Austro-Prussian
War, and the 1870-1871 Franco-Prussian War. In the case of the
Franco-Prussian War, in addition to any battle honors/streamers awarded,
each regiment participating in the war received a special flag topper
consisting of an 1870 Grand Cross of the Iron Cross. (This decoration, which
was awarded on a limited basis to generals only during the war, is
seldom-seen and very expensive).
When a man was mustered into a regiment, he swore allegiance to his Kaiser,
his fatherland, and his regiment at the regimental flag. The gentleman who
has consigned this standard to us advises that approximately thirty infantry
regiments employed this particular standard style. Taking into consideration
that each regiment had three standards, the maximum was ninety. They were
carefully controlled. If one became unserviceable during its "life," it was
retired from service and a new one was presented by the Kaiser to the
battalion/regiment. I have spoken with advanced collectors who have
regimental standards in their collections. I found it interesting that many
of them were captured at the end of WW II and sent to Russia. In the 1980's
or 1990's, an American-made contact with a museum in the Soviet Union and
arrangements were made to release many of them. Naturally, many of them
immediately made their way to German museum collections, where they are on
display today. A small number of the freed standards found their way into
the hands of collectors, which is what we offer you today.
How rare are these regimental standards? VERY rare. I have seen a small
number of them firsthand (they are breathtaking). This is the first time I
have ever offered one to you. Some of the other rare Imperial German
Militaria items can be seen more frequently, as they were available by the
hundreds or perhaps even by a thousand, depending on the item. Again, this
flag was one of perhaps NINETY! From that, deduct the number (your guess is
as good as mine on this) that were destroyed during two World Wars. All that
survived are perhaps more than one-hundred-years-old by now. I promise you;
you will not see these available often. This, ladies and gentlemen is
history and I mean, real HISTORY!
Banners such as these were produced from silk and embroidered with various
colors of bullion. The banner measures 49" x 52 1/4." The flag’s background is white, although being one-hundred-years-old (probably a bit older) it is
no longer as snowy white as it once was. The flag weighs 1 pound and 15
ounces. The flag’s central theme on the obverse is a multicolored
Hohenzollern Eagle. The Eagle is crowned, with widespread wings. It clasps a
sword in one talon and a bundle of thunderbolts in the other. It is enclosed
in a laurel leaf wreath. The wreath is in turn topped by a large
Hohenzollern Crown. Within the wreath, just above the Eagle, is the motto
"Pro-Gloria-Et-Patria" which translates to "For Glory and
Fatherland." This was Prussia’s motto. From the central wreath eight
diagonal stripes extend to the flag’s four corners. In each of the four
corners is a smaller crowned wreath that holds the Kaiser’s cypher.
Let us turn for a moment to the standard’s condition, which we will
carefully highlight in the large number of photographs that accompany our
description. The banner is full and complete. Since it is made of silk, a
number of tears and also several holes appear. In the lower left corner you
will see partial netting over the crowned cypher. This was done here and
generally over the entire flag to offer extra support. I mentioned the
weight (1 pound and 15 ounces) earlier. It is important to remember as the
weight put a lot of pressure on the flag and made it susceptible to
advancing problems as tears and rips developed. The weight is mostly due to
the flag’s elaborate bullion in the center and corners. It adds a great deal
of weight to an already heavy silk banner. The bullion work is breathtaking.
Again, I ask you to pay special attention to the attached photographs. If
you look at the flag’s far left side, you will see where it was attached to
the flagpole, and where a material flap has partially separated from the
flag’s body. The flap folded over the flagpole, however, and you can see the
many holes where it was attached. The flag’s reverse is identical, although
we will take photos of both sides. This is a truly amazing artifact. You
must remember that very few of these have survived, and this flag is
historically, very IMPORTANT. I am honored to share it with you on Der
Rittmeister Militaria’s web site pages.
$31,995.00
This is a consignment item. The regimental flag or standard was one of a battalion/regiment’s most important possessions. Out of all the government-issued equipment, it was the most-prized. The regimental flag was well protected in battle. It was accorded the respect and best treatment possible. This meant when it was unfurled and on display in front of its battalion along with its attendant battle honors and streamers, or when it was not in use, or when it needed protecting from foul weather. To the latter end, a special foul weather case was created (hence the term "Uncase the colors!"), to protect the treasured regimental flag when not in use. In the case of Imperial Germany, the case was made of oilskin. It protected the flag within from even the harshest rain. The case is lined with what I would term a cotton flannel. The case measures 59 1/2" in length, overall. It is important to note that the oilskin exterior of the case has been restored and is not original to the topper. The flag topper is made of brass. The oilskin portion measures 52" x 7," and the flag topper measures 71/4" x 6." The flag topper is made of brass. It features the Kaiser’s crowned royal cypher. If you look carefully at the topper’s base, where it attaches to the oilskin material, you will see a section of bullion tape. It has a fine patina that we are accustomed to seeing on uniforms, etc. This is an amazing accessory that was vital to the protection of the sacred regimental standard. $1,795.00
25-69 XDK REGIMENTAL FLAG - FOUL WEATHER COVER.
This is a consignment item. This is a VERY rare accessory which was used by the Fahnenträger for a Pionier-Battalion. The Fahnenträger was the standard bearer for the battalion’s standard or flag. To be selected to carry the regimental standard (Fahnen) was considered a great honor. The man who held the post was generally a more senior NCO. These men were very easy to spot as they wore a special sleeve patch on their uniforms. The distinctive and colorful patch displays crossed flags. These patches do not merely depict any old flag, but mimic rather closely the standards that the men carried. The pre WW I German Army had approximately 250 or so of the old-line regiments, including infantry, artillery, cavalry, etc. Within that number, certainly less than 1,000 men held this important post at any time. Our offering today is a bandolier worn by a Fahenträger who served in a Pionier-Battalion. The bandolier was made from a combination of leather and a bullion material that was applied over its outer portions to make the accessory even more impressive-looking. The bandolier is in essentially two pieces. They are connected by buckles and straps so it can be adjusted to fit the man wearing it. $4,495.00
25-70 XDK FAHNENTRÄGER BANDOLIER - PIONIER-BATTALION.
25-61 NAVY VETERAN ASSOCIATION - TABLE BANNER.
This
is one of the most interesting veteran’s table banners that I have
encountered. It is especially interesting, because it is for a group of
naval veterans from WW I and before. The banner’s stand measures 31" tall. It
has a brass base, which is dented. A brass rod also in it extends upward. An
extension fits into the rod that extends both vertically and horizontally.
The horizontal piece features delicate lattice work on which appears an
anchor and a sailing ship. The horizontal piece extends out 12 3/4." All of these
pieces disassemble, and take a mere thirty seconds to set up again. Attached
to the horizontal piece is the banner. The banner is attached by three
extensions that come out of the banner’s top. The banner measures 10 1/2" x
10."
It is made of hand-woven silk. One side features the Bavarian group’s name.
Twin Eagles appear on panels. Below that a rampant Bavarian Lion appears. We
also see the date 1930, which is when it was placed in service. The
banner actually was for the ladies auxiliary of the veterans’ group. This side has suffered some running of the silk, which is more correctly termed
"shredding." It is very common with silk items. You have to remember that
the banner is 78-years-old!
The banner’s reverse is even more interesting. It recreates one of WW I’s
most famous paintings. It is known as "The Last Man." It depicts a
German sailor clinging to his ship’s wreckage and thrusting the
kriegsflagge defiantly in the air as a ship steams by in the background.
This painting was recreated in postcards, etc. during the war. It proclaimed
the German sailors’ fighting spirit, and their service to the Fatherland.
The scene is encircled by a life preserver that serves as the frame for the
painting’s recreation. In gold on the red life preserver is the legend
"Marine-Verein Erlangen." Anchors are on all four corners of the banner.
It is a very handsome and interesting banner. It would make a superb display
item for any collection. It has loads of eye appeal.
$1,395.00
25-25 DESK SIZED VETERANS ASSOCIATION FLAG WITH STAND FOR INFANTRY-REGIMENT Nr 91 - OLDENBURG. This is a really exciting find from our most recent buying trip to Germany. It is a desk-sized veteran’s banner representing a veteran’s group for Oldenburgisches Infantry-Regiment Nr 91. This regiment was raised during the height of the Napoleonic Wars in1813. It was garrisoned in Oldenburg. Oldenburg, although designated a Grand Duchy, was relatively small. It fielded a single infantry regiment, one cavalry regiment, and one battalion of artillery. The regimental banner would always be used at parade functions and even often while on the march. This desk banner closely replicates the regimental banner in many respects. The mini banner measures 8 ½" x 81/2." It is made of silk and sports mini tassels on three sides, just as the larger version would. One side displays the Oldenburg coat-of-arms, along with the legend "Die Treue ist das Mark der Ehre(Fidelity is the Mark of Honor)." In each of the four corners is the Grand Duke of Oldenburg Peter Ludwig’s royal cypher. The opposite side has as the central theme a gold embroidered crowned cypher for Peter Ludwig appearing within a wreath of leaves. Above and below this cypher is the legend "Verein Ehemaliger 91er Oldenburg(Society of Former 91st Oldenburg)." This marvelous handcrafted banner is attached to a metal frame that allows it to be displayed on a table top or other flat surface. It stands 21 3/4" tall and 9" wide. It has a substantial and decorative base. I must tell you that this piece displays like a million bucks. This would make for a wonderful centerpiece of a display featuring items from Oldenburg or that would be closely associated with this fine regiment. The banner and frame are of the highest quality and exhibit only gentle aging. I have had perhaps two of these sort of banners in the past. I can assure you that they are VERY difficult to find. $1,395.00. . .
25-19 MINI VETERANS BANNER. This small banner was perhaps used at a veteran’s association meeting and was placed on a table hung from a small flag pole. The banner measures 12 ½" x 8" and is silk, with high-quality embroidered descriptive and decorative writing. This banner is for 1. Oberrheinisches Infantry-Regiment Nr 97. This Prussian regiment was founded in 1881. It was disbanded in 1918 at the end of WW I. The banner has a wooden horizontal pole that holds the banner up for display. It has a green background with a white bandeau displaying the various campaigns in which the regiment participated. On the bandeau is the creation date of the regiment, along with when it was disbanded. In the center of the bandeau is a black Iron Cross with the date of 1914. A crowned royal cypher over crossed swords also appears. At the bottom of the banner is some fine gold fringe. $575.00
25-71 BRASS FLAG TOPPER - REGIMENTAL STANDARD COLORS CASE.
13-245 KAISERLICHE MARINE FLAG FOR A KONTERADMIRAL FOR USE ABOARD HIS FLAGSHIP. This is a very rare flag for a Konteradmiral in the Kaiserliche Marine. This large flag, which measures 2.4 meters x 2.4 meters, has its original rope lanyards. These would have flown from the admiral’s flagship. The size and the rank of the flag are stenciled in black on the bunting. As this is a larger flag, there are several areas of moth nips. There is one tear in it and a stained area. The basic theme is a black cross on a white background. Two black "meatballs" denote the rank of the flag. This flag is very rare since there were few admirals at sea with their ships. A real find for the navy collector. $895.00
25-73 FLAG - SINGING GROUP 1889-1906 - LINDENBERG. This is a most unusual flag, which was used by a singing group located in Lindenburg, which is in Bavaria. The flag measures 44" x 44." It is quite ornate and made of silk or satin. The central design is framed with red holly berries and green leaves, as well as sparkling gold bullion curlicues. An oak tree branch curves up along the left side. It is decorated with embroidered leaves in various shades of green, and acorns bedecked with gold bullion. A songbook nestles among the leaves, as well as a blue and white (Bavaria’s official colors) ribbon tied in a bow. Further up is an elaborate scroll in blue, white and red, edged with gold bullion, proclaiming that the group was founded in 1889 (gegr. 1889). The center of the flag reads " Besang-Verein -Sängerlust -Lindenberg - 1906 (Singing Association "Singer’s Desire," Lindenberg, 1906)." The letters are embroidered in gorgeous blue thread and gold bullion, bedecked and embellished with even more bullion, ornate designs, coils and squiggles. The flag is one-sided and was probably displayed on a wall. It is VERY well made. It shows its age around the edges with some loose threads and in a few darker spots on the flag’s body. After all, it IS 103-years-old. It would make a fantastic wall covering.$275.00
25-74 KRIEGSFLAGGE. This is a fine example of a kriegsflagge. The kriegsflagge was flown during times of conflict. This example, which measures 27” x 40 1/4,” features an Iron Cross and Hohenzollern Eagle. The flag’s material is a light, almost gauze-like cotton. Some mothing shows on several areas. No markings appear on the bunting, so this it was probably NOT used by the military. It is becoming increasingly difficult to find smaller flags in this size. $995.00
25-75 NATIONAL FLAG - IMPERIAL GERMANY.
25-51 VETERAN’S ASSOCIATION FLAG. Many towns
and cities had veteran’s association chapters for those who had served in the
military. Today we are offering a fine example of a veteran’s association
flag. In many cases these flags were an extension of the regimental flags
under which they had marched. The flag measures 60" x 58." It is one-sided. It
sports alternating tassels in white and black around its edges. At the top of
the flag are the words "Krieger-Verein." Below that is a magnificent
Hohenzollern Eagle, which measures 30 1/2 x 30. Below the Eagle are the words "Kell, Gegründet 1871." This
was for a branch of the War Veteran’s Association for that city, which had
been founded right after the Franco-Prussian War ended. Many such chapters
were founded in the years following that war. From the German standpoint it
was a much more satisfactory and happy time than 1918. Many associations
were founded after WW I, but mostly in the early 1920's after the postwar
revolutionary period had passed.
The flag is in very good condition. A couple of spots reveal some very light
water staining, which is not detractive to the overall condition of the flag.
$895.00
25-27 ENLISTED MAN'S LANCE PENNANT FOR HUSAREN-REGIMENT Nr 17 - BRAUNSCHWEIG. This is a lance pennant for an enlisted man serving in Husaren-Regiment Nr 17 from the Duchy of Braunschweig. The pennant measures 13 1/4" x 28" and is swallow-tailed in design. It is half-yellow and half-gray. Some markings appear on the bunting that could be a man’s name or a place. It is slightly soiled, but is complete and in fine condition. Lance pennants are hard to come by. They are good to display with a tunic or on their own. $895.00 . . .
$1,195.00
25-44 NCO’S CAVALRY PENNANT WITH PARTIAL LANCE - HUSAREN-REGIMENT Nr 17 - BRAUNSCHWEIG. This is a cavalry pennant mounted to a partial lance from Husaren-Regiment Nr 17 in the Duchy of Braunschweig. This elite Hussar regiment was one of FOUR regiments in the German Army that wore the Totenkopf on their headdress. The regiment was raised 1809 and proudly served with Wellington in the Peninsula Campaign and at Waterloo. They also saw extensive service in the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-1871. The pennant, which is for an NCO rather than an enlisted man, measures 26 3/4" x 13 ½." It features a striking yellow background on which we see the Braunschweig Coat-of-Arms. The pennant is mounted to a partial lance measuring 35" in length. The full tip of the lance is present. The lower half of the lance has been sawn off. Depot markings show on the lance to the extent indicating which lance number this was. It shows no reissue from a depot nor does it have any regimental markings.
This is an enlisted man’s pennant and partial lance from Oldenburgisches Dragoner-Regiment Nr 19. This regiment was founded in 1849 and garrisoned in the capital of Oldenburg. Oldenburg was a very small grand duchy that fielded one infantry and one cavalry regiment. They also fielded a single artillery battalion. The pennant measures 26" x 14." It features an eagle on a blue background. The Oldenburg Star is mounted in the center of the eagle’s chest. The pennant is constructed from a very gauzy and lightweight cotton similar to that of flags. Some minor areas of moth nipping appear. The pennant is mounted to a partial lance, which measures 36" in length. This measurement extends from the lance’s tip to the cut off point. The pennant is mounted to the lance using a leather thong that has been fed through the pennant bunting’s four holes and through the lance itself. The lance tip sports many markings on it, as well as the date 1920. Clearly, this lance was checked back into the equipment depot after WW I, then was reissued by the Reich’s Heer in 1920. This is a very rare and historic item. $1,095.00
25-42 CAVALRY PENNANT AND PARTIAL LANCE - DRAGONER-REGIMENT Nr 19 - OLDENBURG.
25-47 FLAGPOLE 50-YEAR CHAIN.
This is an interesting flag pole chain from a veteran’s group. It is from a Prussian Landwehr Association. The chain measures 101/2."
The plaque attached to the chain measures 21/2" x 2."
On the obverse is the name of the group along with an eagle. The reverse has
the image of a veteran’s memorial and a "50" for the group’s 50th
anniversary. It is a remarkably handsome accouterment.
$295.00
The display of flags was always important in German veterans’ groups. Part of the display included a flag topper, which was screwed into the wooden flagpole top. This tradition arose from the regimental standards that the men had marched under while in active service. The entire flagpole tradition was a very serious part of German Army history. For instance, the regiments which fought in the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-1871 were awarded flag toppers by Kaiser Wilhelm I. They were made of brass and incorporated an 1870 Grand Cross of the Iron Cross. Such flag toppers can easily fetch upwards of $3,000, when they can be found. Our offering today is painted gold. A 1914 Iron Cross rests within the framework of an oak and laurel leaf wreath. It is similar in size to a Grand Cross of the Iron Cross, as seen on the previously-mentioned 1879 flag toppers. Our topper measures 11 3/4" x 5 1/4." The Iron Cross within measures 2 1/2" x 2 1/2." The flag topper is in very good condition. It would make a fine addition to any display in your collection. $325.00
25-62 FLAG TOPPER - POST WW I VETERANS’ GROUP.
25-30 PATRIOTIC VETERANS GROUP BANNER. This is a triangular-shaped veterans’ group banner. From the tip of the triangle to the base, it measures 26." At its widest point at the base, the banner measures 37." The background material of the banner is a black velvet. In the center is featured a Prussian Eagle within a shield. This is hand-sewn in four to five sumptuous colors. Above the shield is a magnificent embroidered gold and silver bullion Hohenzollern Crown. Flanking the shield is a wonderful series of oak leaves, which are also embroidered in gold and silver bullion. At the base of the banner, still in the embroidered gold and silver bullion, reads the legend "Vaterland! In Treue Fest." This entire arrangement is quite striking. Some of the trim on the two equal sides of the triangle has pulled loose. To preserve it from further damage we have sewn it down. This is a lovely banner that, if framed, would look like a million bucks. Or it could simply be mounted on a wall. This is bargain-priced to sell quickly. $625.00. . .
25-53 NATIONAL FLAG - GERMANY. This is a national flag of Germany during the Imperial times. This flag was used before WW I, when Germany was not at war. The flag measures 27" x 22 1/2.’ It has horizontal stripes of black, white, and red. This is a patriotic flag and would not have been used for military purposes. It shows some minor soiling, but is in very good condition, overall. $450.00
This is a rather interesting set of two patriotic flags. Both are made of a cloth similar to oil cloth. Each is mounted on a wooden stick. The flags measure 9 ½" x 7 ½." The first flag is the state flag of Bavaria. The flag on the far right celebrates the wedding of Ernst August of Braunschweig and Princess Viktoria Louise of Prussia, the daughter of Kaiser Wilhelm II. THIS FLAG HAS BEEN SOLD. The third flag I cannot identify. It has a red background with a white cross on it. The cross has interesting designs on it. If anybody can help identify this flag, I would be very grateful. All of the flags show honest age. They are quite old, and certainly from the Imperial German period. $50.00
25-34 TWO FABRIC PATRIOTIC FLAGS.
This is a kriegsflagge. It measures 63" x 37." The flag’s black portions are somewhat faded. That said, I really like the flag because it is made of a fine cotton. It is not the thin gauzy cotton which is more susceptible to tearing and ripping. The material’s condition is excellent. Its fading shows light but honest aging. The rope attachments for a halyard are present. All in all, it is a fine example in a smaller and more manageable size. $995.00
25-78 KRIEGSFLAGGE.
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