WW1 German Heer Gedenkbild – REMEMBRANCE / MEMORIAL DISPLAY – KIA SOMME – 1917

You are bidding on a VERY NICE example of a original WW1 Imperial German Armee Embroidered Gedenkbild Memorial Display! These highly personal pieces were intended to remain with the family as permanent tributes, frequently incorporating patriotic embroidery, the recipient’s military decorations, and details surrounding their death.

Following the outbreak of World War One in 1914, millions of German soldiers served on every front of the conflict. Families who lost loved ones during the war often commissioned beautifully embroidered memorial displays to honor their sacrifice. The Iron Cross was Germany’s most recognized decoration for bravery and distinguished military service. Memorial displays such as these were individually commissioned rather than mass produced, with each example commemorating a specific soldier. Because they were cherished family keepsakes, comparatively few survived over the past century, making original embroidered examples considerably scarcer than printed patriotic memorials and highly desirable to collectors of Imperial German militaria.

Made of cloth and wood, this BEAUTIFUL example remains in EXCELLENT original condition! Commemorating Josef Geng, who was killed in action on January 9, 1917 during fighting on the Somme in France, the embroidery is completely hand stitched, including the oak leaf wreath, lettering, dates, and patriotic slogan. It indicates:

GETREU BIS IN DEN TOD
(Faithful Unto Death)
1914
JOSEF, GENG.
+ 9-1-17- A.D. SOME FRANKR.

Mounted prominently within the display is his original Imperial German Iron Cross 2nd Class complete with its original ribbon, still secured exactly as originally displayed. The original wooden frame and glass remain intact, and the memorial appears to have remained unopened since it was assembled over one hundred years ago. The reverse retains its original wooden backing together with the original felt covering, showing expected age and some loss from decades of storage. The handwritten inscription on the reverse reads, “Gew. v. Familie Sternmeier” (Dedicated by the Sternmeier Family), and dated 27.2. 17, only weeks after Josef Geng’s death. The frame displays only honest age and handling wear with no breaks, repairs, or structural damage. A BEAUTIFUL, deeply personal Imperial German WW1 memorial display that would make an OUTSTANDING addition to any advanced collection of Imperial German militaria!