Friends,

I was trying to think of something that might create a bit of "imperial entertainment" for those who may not have a big interest in pre-1918 collectibles, such as medals and uniforms, etc, etc... Many of our members concern themselves chiefly with collecting and studying various aspects of the National Socialist-period, 1933-1945. As these forums are mainly dedicated to areas of German military-history just prior to, and during the Second World War, I thought perhaps we could take a look at some of the early images that may have influenced those who also lived during that later time period..?

Take for instance Himmler's obsession with German culture - what were the things that fascinated not only the RFSS, but his entire generation? Certainly artistic interpretation added its profound impact to the printed word - renderings of brave heroes, warriors from the epic Nordic sagas, tales of Germanic knighthood and the lore of all things Aryan ... I believe the affect of the imperial graphic and visual-arts was a definitive contributing factor in shaping the perceptions of those that took the reins of the NS hierarchy. Darwin's radical new theories were still a juicy topic for discussion in coffee-houses throughout Europe, as were brilliant, new scientific discoveries. Nature's influence flourished in the decorative arts, the naturalistic-style of illustration and design prevalent in most examples of Nouveau and Jugenstil arts and crafts.

Periodicals, magazines, books and newspapers were the greatest influences on the masses at the turn of the century and the majority of them were illustrated with artwork of one kind or another. Pen and ink line-illustrations, oil paintings and watercolors, engravings, etchings and myriads of lithographs, wood-cuts and crayon drawings - all played a part in the graphic-related industries.. Each concept easily worth a thousand words or more, many of these illustrations can be taken as well-defined reflections of current topics and events of those heady times.

So let's take a look at a few that I've nicked for the occasion ... sshhh!

Please share your thoughts and favorite pics with us, too. How hard can it be to pop something into your scanner? Give us your take on these early sources of NS influence and interest. Remember, no photos please, artwork only.

Some of these are a bit small but ... beggars can't be choosers ... nevertheless, hope you enjoy!

Bill

1/3 ... early German soldier

2/3 ... Bayerischer Soldat

3/3

Wotan and his ravens, Hugin & Munin. (thought and memory)

... Valkyries

... heh ...

Weapons and symbols of the Thirty-Years War ...

Gentlemen,

Sorry if nobody likes the images, I do ...

Maybe I can get a response on this little beauty? A nice pair of.., err, ah.. seahorses!



B~

They are great pictures. I agree that the obsession with Germanic culture; the past, fairy tails, etc. began long before the Third Reich and RF Himmler. Only he made a lot of it state funded and made certain aspect of it and its belief mandatory. At least for the General SS. Its sad in this age people do not care about culture at all really. The value culture, the arts, and even our own heroic past have, have cease to have a tremendous amount of value to anyone and especially to youth and today's popular culture. Too bad really. Anyways great pictures I really like them, but maybe I'm just one of those weird people that romanticize about the past and think it still holds some value.
I also really don't think it's that nobody likes these pictures, its just participation is down so much nowadays. Something needs to be done to revive this forum, there has got to be a way. I have just always liked the set up of this forum over the others, the way the pages are viewed, etc.. Maybe I'm just nostalgic though.

Adam,

Thanks for your thoughts and kind response. You mention culture, or actually the lack of it today. heh... only time will tell, however, I'm sure there's something good going on somewhere out there? - Yeah, how about some of our own great and powerful cultural icons - Michael Jackson, Brittney, other tone-deaf singers in general, gangstas, buffoons, etc ... big smelly mounds of poop and pleez, ... spare me wid dat munchkin-brained cosmic debris!

It seems these days we're all pretty much fully occupied with our own unique and sometimes drastically normal work-a-day rat-races, or wheels-of-mis-fortune, or whatever the individual case may be? Work, get up, go to work again, on and on over and over, ad nauseum, ad infinitum ... well, for better or worse I've chosen this hobby and have stuck with it longer than many a passing fancy over the fleeting years. Hopefully I'd like to be able to pass on some of my small inspirations and personal triumphs to any who share the same kindred interests, but then again, maybe not? Leastwise, I'm willing to give 'er a go ...

For those who become really 'entranced/entrenced' in our hobby, we normally find most of the very sucessful boys keenly knowledgeable not only in their specific fields of interest, but also in many aspects of world history in general and European history, specifically. The more you know about how many different events in time interlock and actually influence one another, the greater your appreciation will be for some of the very things that we persue and collect. Seemingly insignificant details may add just the right icing on the cake, it's exactly why you'll see grown men get really jazzed about a simple number or code stamped into a seemingly common medal or dagger of some sort... it's all in the details, as one of our forum member's tag goes. Those are excellent words to live by if you're any kind of collector worth your salt.

I'd say learning about the culture of the people who's stuff we collect is imperative, that is, if we actually want to become even semi-serious about it, no? Yes, in that context it can be a most helpful and a valuable tool in our personal kitbag of collecting-tips. Knowing the mindset, terminology and general mood of the times may help you to make an important and costly decision someday in the future, maybe precisely when you're buying that ultra-rare presentation piece you've wanted and saved for all your life ... hmm?

From that perspective alone I'd say it'd be worth studying the years just prior to whatever era or period it is that you're interested in, too, as you'll make lots of new connections that way. Read and understand anything and everything from the time-slot that most grabs your fancy, Someday, an almost insignificant little detail might just pay off in trumps!

The past will always hold its value as long as there are those who have an appreciation for it.
Happy trails and good collecting to all you gents!

Bill

Hope this 1921 post card is along the lines of this thread.I don't know much about it but liked the art.

Dean,

Yes, you've nailed it exactly! Your postcard "Feuersprung zu Wintersonnwend" translates to, "fire-jumping at winter solstice," an old German ritual to celebrate the rebirth of the coming year. Large bonfires are built on the longest, darkest night of the year, the December solstice, an important link in nature's cycle.

Those who've given Himmler's SS more than a cursory glance will be able to explain the thoughts and reasoning behind some of these age-old traditions. This is the festival of JUL, the wheel, or turning of the cycle of life - hence, the Allach Julleuchter. The bonfire or flame represents the sun, and we are all likened to seeds in the earth, waiting to be reborn in the coming year, unlocking our potential for new, personal growth and strength. Himmler meant to rekindle many of these early Germanic customs through his Ahnenerbe staff, a powerful research department devoted to manufacturing evidence pointing to a direct German/Aryan link. The old boy was fascinated and consumed with these ideas, albeit many of their theories were completely contrived and patently false, nevertheless, they fueled his fertile and fevered imagination. Even Hitler made some snide comments over the Reichsf�hrer's obsession with early Germanic history.

Is there a date or anything printed on the back of the card? Sometimes that'll give you the publishers name or some indication of where the card originated?

Many thanks for your fine addition, I know it might not be easy finding something apropos to fit into this category.

Best!

Bill

The back of the Jung postcard is postmarked 1921.
It has correspondence,a small printers logo that looks 2 fingers holding what looks like a weight with a boy and lion (maybe.It's pretty small),and WIA under it.

On edge printed in very small letters is:
Wia-kunstlerkarten-Urlagg,Teplitz-Schonau.
Entmurf von Fr.Jung.

Here's something else that might be in the
renderings of brave heroes, warriors theme.

A exlibris dated 1915.
On the back of this one is:
Einzelpreis 10 Pfg.
Tiesdruck von O. Felsing, Charlottenburg.

Bill,where did you get the Wonton & his ravens photo?Nice one.

Dean,

Your ex libris bookplate is outstanding, the old Germanic warrior is the "Protector of German Spiritual Quality."

Gotta love that helmet ...

In the line, "Tiesdruck von O. Felsing, Charlottenburg." I'm fairly certain the first word should be spelled, Tiefdruck, with an "F."
That would translate to photogravure or intaglio, both are printing methods.

I found that nice graphic of Wotan on eBay,
someone was selling old German prints from the Art Nouveau publication, "Jugend." I told you I nicked them ...

Do you think you could possibly scan your ex libris plate on a good flatbed scanner and send me the file, please? I'd really enjoy taking a good look at the details on that one. nice!

Keep 'em coming if you can?

Thanks!

Bill

Another postcard dated 1915 with Germania and eagles.The corrspondence on back was nice in my book so I included it too.

Back

Von Stuck

Other side

Dean,

You've really been busy at this for a good long while, haven't you? Those are definitely some excellent postcards, fantastic images.

Andrew Wyeth would have loved these old illustrations. Did you know he was a big fan of Paul Casberg, the German military artist? When I showed Herr Wyeth some of Casberg's illustrated mounted cavalry troops, he instantly fell in love with the horse paintings and begged me to get him a copy of the old imperial-aged book. I did ...

Franz Stuck's brilliant Medusa is especially frightening, that is one crazy-looking lady, Jesus ..! man, I would beat-feet if I knew she was even anywhere near the neighborhood! Some neat looking European vipers for her hairdo - I wonder what she feeds those buggers?

I'll have to go on another "treasure hunt" for more nice early images as soon as I can find a bit of time again...

This type of artwork is a great complement to the finest of militaria collections. One or two of the old German masters will certainly lend due creedence to the respectability to our much-maligned hobby.

Great stuff here, thanks!

Bill

Couldn't resist, what a great caricature of Kaiser Willi ...

Here my 'German War Bond Drive /Request ' art postcard .

It was never sent through the mail , but a soldier had started to write a note to his Dad --but never finished it !

A 'Feld-postcard 'showing the a drawing of the cityhall in Hamburg with a airship added in the sky !

Here the card >

It was sent through the mail.

Here the cards backside section .

Here now a small package box .

..and close-up of the 'German ' lefthand side .

....and the ' Austrian ' righthand side .

Bernd,

Very nice, I especially like the "war-bond"
card, it's a great illustration of an observer-gunner. I like the little finishing touches on the courthouse in Hamburg postcard. Nice how they worked the national colors - schwarz, weiss, rot, into the border rules. Your mailing label is in great shape, too. Bold bright colors indicate that this example has been well cared for over the years ...

Hope you might have some more examples that you can share with us... many thanks!

Bill

Bill : Thank you for your kind remarks .
Here now a 'little' art piece from my Grandfather's letter seal collection . I assume he gave some money to get this token ; he did live in Berlin .

Now I have 3 tabel display books , very thick and heavy , that I got from my other Grandfather who served on the frontlines in Belgium . These are very detailed about the entire WWI history as seen from the German side , with many photos , drawings and maps . The 3rd volume was actual printed after the war .

...and a close-up .

..and artist's name .

Now a black pencil drawing I got about a year ago . It is small like 8- by 9-inches . I can not make out the artist's name , only 1917.

...and a close up of this intense face !

Here now again a black pencil drawing of a WWI soldier : Heinrich Rueter .I got to know him as an older man , retired teacher in Luebeck , and good friend of the family .

...and a close-up again .

...and close-up of the artist's name .

Here's one of prince Wilhelm as a knight


Gary

The Kaiser is on parade

Here's another of the Kaiser from the same book.

Bernd-

It's always great to see that penciled art of the soldier with the helmet.
The artist really got the battle hardend stare right on.
Are these 2 drawings by the same artist?

Gentlemen,

Glad to see these very impressive additions!

Bernd - that's a treasure-trove of personal items. Those are always the most valued and special things that one can have in a good collection. I have a small photo of my father in uniform in 1942, and a pencil drawing of him as a prisoner-of-war in Russia in 1947, done by a Luftwaffe master-sergeant in the same camp outside of Moscow. As small as these items are, I'd like for someone special to have them after I take that last ride into the unknown ...

What a cover illustration on that book, I wonder what type of printing method they used on it, printed on linen I'd imagine? I can't even see any scuffing on it..? The two pencil drawings are really lovely. The soldier bust is just so damn dynamic and powerful. One quick glance and your mind is running in fifteen different directions with questions and observations - precisely what good art should do, make you think!

Gary, I'm glad to see that you found some time to share with us, though, unfortunately I've got to hop into the shower and go 'a-printin'...
I'll get back to your illustrations a bit later on.

Carry on mates!

W~

Gary,

Three good patriotic illustrations of the two Kaisers, Wilhelm I and his successor, Wilhelm II.

At the time that these early drawings/engravings were produced, commercial photography was just gaining ground in the field of graphic arts. We're just starting to see photographic images coming into their own. The recently complete American Civil War was the testing-gound that proved the camera's viability. After that time a good photo could capture and stimulate the imagination as well as any of the finest of artistic, illustrative mediums. Sadly, something profound was lost.
With the advent of this or any other new technology, old ways and methods are superceeded and eventually discarded, for better or worse ...

Though, what photograph could surpass your third rendering of what looks to be Wilhelm and Bismarck sharing the limelight among the heads of state and military captains - no doubt celebrating their victory of the Franco-Prussian War of 1871? The complexity of this drawing and attention to detail is nothing short of astonishing, the shield and crown study in the foreground is a work of art in itself! The battle flags and standards that compose the background are simply amazing. It seems this artist's talent was almost boundless. How did he ever remember this colossal scene so well as to produce this vivid masterpiece? What about those ever-so-subtle personal touches, for instance, highlighting the Kaiser and his Iron Chancellor among all those bodies? Somehow the artist immediately draws our attention onto the two main subjects, there's a pre-planned yet very natural flow and movement there. Exceptional. There's so much symbolism depicted in there that truly it's cup runneth over!

It's hard to imagine that artwork like this wouldn't bring out the national patriot in everyman..? "united we stand..." and all that good stuff.., all brought to you by mind's eye.

Some mighty fine examples so far fellas!

Remember that famous line from "Night of the Generals," when Gen. Tanz says, "I must see decadent art ..!" ha!

Bill

1926 Postcard

Dean,

Nice postcard, the first Turnerbund example that I've seen or really looked at, I think? At first I thought it was produced a little later - the brownshirts would have loved this imagery. The type-font the artist created is a stylized runic alphabet, something one would expect from the SS, nicht? The saying sounds like some of those stern "Hitler-quote" cards that were fairly common at the time. This one boldly states, "The Last Victory Lies in the Sword." ... pretty heavy stuff for a gymnastics organization. Here, I'd say the sword has just cut through the binding Allied chain that was meant to crush the German spirit after WWI.

Great sunwheel-swastika, too. It reminds you of the outstanding Luftwaffe sword pommel design. There's a great Turnerbund tinnie that's a large, heavy depiction of their unique sunwheel - it's a very nice unit for those who like a good tinnie, still fairly inexpensive, too.

I think it's a great illustration, you can really feel the power and jubilant force in that painting. I'd think that by 1926 the Allied yoke was becoming just about unbearable for many Germans, especially any towns, industries or areas that were still under direct supervision for repaying the war-debt, and what a debt it was!

Many thanks for taking time to post.

B~

Bill-
Appreciate your time and input from a historian and graphic artist point of view.
Also, thanks for all the great art related contributions to the forum.
Great stuff and a pleasure to read about and view.

Dean,

My pleasure, thanks.

Time for a few more methinks?

For you NSFK aficionados out there, our old friend Icarus. I think the brownshirts may have chosen the wrong hero to use as their logo, after all, didn't this guy crash and burn?
... bad ju-ju from the get-go, ha!

... and a few more images for good measure.

Best!

Wm.

2/4

3/4

4/4

Nice art Bill.
I was hoping this thread would pick up again.
Those stamps are the coolest.
Can't get enough of this sort of thing.
Much appreciated.

Gents,

I apologize in advance, this won't be one of those inspiring heroic images like some of those above ...

This is just a neat old simple and direct graphic image that I found and thought was pretty cool. Very simplistic but right to the point, a vacuum-cleaner called the "vampire." Gauranteed to suuuck-up all that nasty stuff right out of your rugs and carpets!

I trust more of you gentlemen will share your goodies with us in all the forums during the upcoming New Year, 2010. I look forward to any and all contributions to the Imperial section you may care to make and I sincerely wish each and everyone of you boys the best collecting year ever! (even though the economy is in the dumper)

Best!

Wm. Warda, Jr.

Nice stuff guys! I think we still have our old vacuum cleaner somewhere.
We can't forget some of the old notes have some very nice art work as well.

.

Mikee,

Superb engraving on these fine notes, got any more? For a hundred Marks you could have almost paid for a nice Turkish Damascus Heer dagger back in the day ...

Have a great New Year!

Bill

Bill,

I sure wish I had a time machine!

I found a stash of stuff I forgot about until I opened it all up along with these notes and probably have more somewhere. Which reminds me to kindly ask Gaspare if he would translate a bronze Russian table medal that was among this stuff. That is if I can remember were I laid it down. Isn�t that something, I really need to tell my wife to be more mindfull of this stuff.

Happy New Year to you as well!

,,Great images guys. An inspiring thread!
I'll post my contributions when able.
Cheers and Happy 2010 to All.

I'm already looking forward to seeing some new images of allsorts in the New Year. Hope I can get things rolling along on this first day with a lovely snapshot by a German Weimar-period photographer.

Best!

Bill

There's no doubt if you enjoy German 20th century graphic and visual arts, the Notgeld bills will provide some of the finest, striking colorful examples - Notgeld or "emergency-money," (pronounced note-gelt) was issued through national, state, local and private channels to financially assist Germans during the lean years after the First World War.

Often these bills portray a wide range of images from the pages of German history - legends, events, geography, family names, companies, large regional and small district advertising, children's tales, religion, industry, etc, etc... Many various styles, themes and artistic concepts can also be seen that reflect the "V�lkish-movement," that came to be so heralded and cherished by the "browns" of the NS regime.

Much larger than stamps, (for us old dogs with faltering peepers to enjoy) collecting these brilliant gems is still very affordable, at times they're downright bargains! Even common tinnies in good shape are expensive when compared to these vibrant historic illustrations.

There's much to be enjoyed in this area of collecting with lots of pertinent information out there on the web to help those with an interest. Lots of good articles have been written on the subject in militaria-related periodicals as of late, too.

Hope you might enjoy these ...

Bill

2/15

3/15

4/15

5/15

6/15

7/15

8/15

9/15

10/15

11/15

12/15

13/15

14/15

15/15

sorry for the miscalculation fellas ...

this last one doesn't qualify as Notgeld, just a nice illustration.

B~

Another area to see very good examples of German graphic art is/are, early 20th century bookplates. Some are intricate, some very simple, and above all entertaining to say the least.

Subject matter as wide and broad as the imagination! Another unique aspect is that we can take a peak into the favorite personal themes of the named individual, who marked his/her property with these noteworthy illustrations.

Woodblock, intaglio, line-art and so many other fine and difficult hand printing methods it literally boggles the mind. Naturally, only applicable with the pre-existing notion that you like this stuff too, heh ...

Good collecting gents!

B~

2/2

quote:

Originally posted by WWII:
Subject matter as wide and broad as the imagination! Another unique aspect is that we can take a peak into the favorite personal themes of the named individual, who marked his/her property with these noteworthy illustrations.

Woodblock, intaglio, line-art and so many other fine and difficult hand printing methods it literally boggles the mind. Naturally, only applicable with the pre-existing notion that you like this stuff too, heh ...

Good collecting gents!

B~

Oh I like the stuff.
Thanks for posting the cool images.

Really like hearing your input as a professional on the artistry and printing methods of the past.Great subject matter.

I love the beautiful exlibris you posted and am jealous I don't have it.

In trying to match the favor for posting it.. here's mine.

Oh my,I'm drooling. Fantastic stuff! More! More! More! Please!

Happy to oblige Mikee.
Kreigsbote-Spectre of war.
I wonder what reason someone would have to send out a postcard like this.
Maybe shows revolution was in the air.

Dean,

Thanks, that's a neat item,a War Messenger with flaming sword and torch. What's on the back of the post card? Their was a German newspaper called Der Kriegsbote(War Messenger).

quote:

Originally posted by WWII:
Woodblock, intaglio, line-art and so many other fine and difficult hand printing methods it literally boggles the mind.B~

As a graphic artist can you show or tell me of something that demonstrates this concept and breifly explain why.

I enjoy 'good art' but know virtually nothing about what makes a print complex or simple.

I believe that it would be difficult to briefly explain all of the different styles of print making. It is way to easy to get off on a tangent of the nuances of various printing techniques and how they affect the image.

Dean,

As SteveRay correctly pointed out, briefly explaining the different methods of reproducing artwork would be a daunting and lengthy task. While some of the basic principles remain basically the same, the methods can range far and wide. I'll touch briefly on a couple techniques, but then I'd like to pose my own question to the forum members who might read this thread.

The level of printing difficulty can range from reproducing a simple, spontaneous charcoal line sketch or pen and ink drawing printed in a single color, to a complex, multi-colored, hand-engraving or wood-cutting process that requires much forethought, exact planning and perfect registration of the colors. A photograph, oil painting or watercolor has to be converted into some type of mechanical process for reproduction, depending on the type of press and printing process that will be used to reproduce the image. The original artwork can be photgraphed or scanned by a computer, and then reassembled into a series of dot or other halftone patterns, set at specific angles for each of the colors. Normally the colors that are used are cyan, magenta, yellow and black - this is called the four-color process, and in most instances will yield pleasing, professional results. Each color in turn has to be perfectly registered, one on top of the other so that those pre-angled screen patterns will re-align into a faithful reproduction of the original. This is the standard for offset printing and is only one small facet of the various reproduction methods.

At times certain colors found in an original will change slightly and subtly when the printer prepares a work for his mechanical process. At times a complex work will call for the addition of more screen-angled plates, in order to print more colors to achieve success at matching the original's color nuances. This is where it starts to get tricky and at times extremely difficult. I've seen fine art collotype reproductions that took over twenty-five different colors to match an original, a very exacting and expensive process, but the end result is exquisite. This is an old, seldom used process simply due to it's complexity, difficulty and cost, like so many other time-consuming crafts and artforms that have fallen by the wayside.

I believe the bookplate that you posted was produced by some kind of engraving process, in which case the artist will grave and cut that image into some sort of metal master plate. The metal can range from hardened steel to a much softer copper for example, but each line has to be hand cut to a proper depth to receive and correctly transfer the ink onto to paper or printing substrate. (plastics and other synthetic materials can also be used as plates) Cutting into the metal can be similar to engraving a rifle or firearm, however, in reverse. The plate is then properly inked, the paper positioned and then must come into contact with the plate under a very precise and uniform pressure to evenly transfer the ink onto the surface of the paper. One small mis-step in any of the pre-press operations can result in abject failure and misery. The engraving, ink, pressure and paper also have to be compatible to achieve a proper result.

Now, it's time for my question to you, simply, what makes art good? Is it the artist, the medium or technique? Perhaps it's the composition, structure and balance? Or is it simply the message that's conveyed to the viewer/interpreter/us? The styles and ingenuity that can be utilized to produce a piece of art are as varied as the subject matter. What is it then that ultimately captures our imaginations when we look at an image? What is it that causes us to think either this is very good, or just more mediocre talent and/or horrible trash? That's what I'd like to hear from you gentlemen, what are your opinions? In the end isn't it all about what the individual viewer sees and interperates for him/her self?

Best regards!

Bill

Ps - a few Belgian anti-German postcards to enjoy ...

2/3

"Outta here.."

3/3

My vote is for the message that's conveyed to the viewer.
All the better if this art has more qualities that are in addition to that aspect.

Thanks for helping in the understanding of the time and effort that went into some of these.
Probably the more it's understood the greater the appreciation will be?

Dean,

I agree, the message is exactly what's important to me, too. How does it relate to me on a personal level? What do I take from this
particular image and can I express that feeling verbally? Remember the old Confucius saying about a picture being worth a thousand words?

That's what I enjoy, other peoples descriptions and observations on a given subject, sort of like an excellent dagger description ... a good verbal interpretation also paints a picture for me, everybody sees things from a different perspective. Take any ordinary household item, say a pencil. Could you describe that simple thing to a blind person, well enough so that that person could form a good, clear mental image of that object? Sometimes it's not easy, heh.

Yes, I also agree the more one can appreciate the difficult techniques behind a certain image or object, the more you will enjoy it. Exactly the same way as if you know the history behind a Knight's Cross and what it took to win one of those awards, then it becomes even more important/valuable/respected by us, the viewers.

Here's a lovely Aquarelle, (transparent watercolor) illustration by one of my favorites, Professor Sturm. Simply titled, "Silver Pheasant & Rhododendron."

Hope to hear what some of you may think about it?

Good collecting gents!

Bill

For me it's all about the subject matter, I'm not too worried about how it was made what form it takes or anything other than "Do I Like It", it's a simple matter really for me.

Gary

Bill-

Is this one of those jaw dropping,mind blowing prints with the highest of difficulty ratings?

Like you mentioned a picture is worth a 1000 words and if this is a labor intense print I think it's becoming a bit clearer now on why.


Also, you mentioned that some engravings are done with different metals.What would be the benefit of using a hard metal as opposed to a softer one?

Baz 69-

At first I would tend to agree that subject matter might be where it's at but what quality is it that sets apart when you have 2 peices with the same subject matter and favor one over the other?

Dean,

Believe it or not, the pheasant print is beautifully reproduced but still isn't at the highest skill-level of printing, though, I'd consider this example to rank just below the gold-standard. The printers who produced this graphic were master-journeymen and absolute tops in their profession.

Gary -

Yes, I agree with you to a certain extant and will try to explain ... first - do I like it, yes or no? (that's the easy part) Much like any of our other collectibles, the details are what it's all about after everything's said and done. I believe that's what Dean was saying -"Does the printing method add something additional to the image?" In which case I'd have to say yes, a small pinch of added flavor. To most, they couldn't give a tinker's darn and that's fair enough - if you like something, that's it, fini. But knowing a little bit more about it never hurt, eh? For instance, if you know all the details that go into producing one of those outstanding Imperial Hirschf�nger, you sort of appreciate it a bit more, nicht war? Attention to the myriads of producer-markings, stampings, codes and such is another detail that would add to the overall appeal of a fine hunting weapon, no?
True, in the end it all boils down to, "Do I like it..." ... but here my question is, why?

Sturm's Pheasant -

To my eye the symmetry, structure and balance of the decorative, Jugendstil iris-border is fantastic and stands all by itself. The lovely bird and flowers really pull one's concentration right into the heart of the painting and that bold spot of black on the fowl's head and chest makes for a powerful contrast, bold as brass. It really fastens the attention directly to the main subject. The anatomy and structure of the bird is excellent and the detail to the Rhododendron leaves, flowers and buds is near photographic quality, which I personally like. The pastel color-palette is so soft and yet vibrant and rich, an absolutely wonderful spectrum of pleasing tints. At once the whole thing has an enchanted, hazy look about it, while at the same time it's razor sharp and crystal clear. Almost like looking at an image while being in a dream-state ... nice, nice, nice! Something I could enjoy looking at for a long, long time.

Hope you might enjoy the Professor's classic illustration ... thanks fellas!

WWII

Bill

I know what I like but I don't know how to express why I like it???
I know exactly what you are saying, the hardship for most people is knowing exactly how it was produced in the first place, it's not always obvious and many a print has been mistaken for a painted picture. You would have to understand the nuances within the printing world to determine why you like one above the other before any conclusions could be drawn as to why you like it better. I agree that it's all about studying your subject, that way you can become informed on the nuances of that particular subject, I ask myself that basic question first, "do I like it" if the answer is yes and I think the item worth more research then I would delve more into it's manufacture, but still for me it is the most important fact to like it first. That's not to say I cannot appreciate the way it was produced, it's just hard to express myself because I know little of the method of manufacture.
I like most of the images posted within this thread to date, some are better than others, if it helps I like the images that are more lifelike that have good colour and are sharp in definition, I'm not sure I look too much past the composition and those traits listed above.

Gary

Gary,

Well put ...

... a few more nice birds by the Professor.

W~

Nice symmetry,nouveau styling,and realistic looking colors/birds on your latest post.

Old postcard.
Back reads: Hotel Prinz Wilhelm
Ernst Zierenberg
Berlin NW 7 Dorotheensrt.14

Then: 'Jlwerba' G.m.b.H Berlin S14

What do you guys think the eagle represents in this case?

I would think the eagle represents Germany ( spec. German dominance or German right to dominance)... flying over the west bank of the Rhine (Alsace) establishing that, as the caption indicates, "the Rhine (is) Germany's river, (but) not Germany's border". The "mission" of the German Siegfried-type defender, with the eagle shield, is then pretty obvious.

Hope this helps (..also hope this is at least somewhat accurate )

Dean,

Roger's answer is right on the money ...

I also think the eagle represents the German nation, with its mighty champion battling a powerful unseen foe, his shield partially shattered and full of the enemy's arrows. The country will send its bravest warriors against any and all challenges that threaten her borders, this one in the southwest, namely France.

Another great nationalistic postcard to remind the Germans of what is/was rightfully theirs. I would think it indicates production sometime after the Versailles Treaty when the Alsace region was given back to the French. This beautiful area was hotly contested between the two nations. For long years the region had a history of going back and forth, on and on, depending on who was more powerful at the moment.

The eagle on the hero's shield looks to be Prussian but I'm not certain if it was meant to represent that of the royal house?

Nice powerful image, thanks for posting!

Bill

Great input and observations Foxart & WWII- Thank you

I just assumed it was an eagle kind of representing death coming to take a fatally wounded warrior off to Valhalla.

Appreciate you guys expanding the thoughts of a tiny mind.

quote:

Originally posted by WWII:
I also think the eagle represents the German nation, with its mighty champion battling a powerful unseen foe, his shield partially shattered and full of the enemy's arrows. The country will send its bravest warriors against any and all challenges that threaten her borders, this one in the southwest, namely France.
Bill

Good verbal interpretation Bill

Dean,

The fact that a few of us are enjoying these graphics pleases me no end ...

Good thing for us collectors the Germans were prolific at producing these postcard images, there are so many diverse themes to study and admire, plenty with military overtones, too. Some of those that are "staged" in a photographer's studio are very unique - having props, background-drops, great lighting as well as trick-photography methods that were no doubt "state-of-the-art" for that time period.

Here's a humorous example that I like that's titled, "A Strong Knocking-together," inferring the English, French and Russian dwarfs were going to get their collective heads bashed together ... and we all know how well that worked out ... heh..

The second is a plain, simple Easter greeting with military/patriotic motifs, most likely something one could purchase in the PX for a penny or two.

The third image is of Siegfried/Sigmund from Nordic Sagas which were found written on runic tablets, decyphered and then written into slightly different versions with character names changing regionally, here and there. This is the Icelandic version and the hero's name is Sigurd, whereas in the middle-high German version our champion's name is Siegfried, who slays the mighty dragon, Fafnir. These old tales are full of descriptions of legendary, powerful, magical swords and edged weapons that were painstakingly forged by sophisticated elves, dwarves and gnomes for both the heroes and villains of the stories. It's also one of the reasons why the sword is a common leitmotif in older German culture, especially in books and illustrations.

Borrowed this brief background on Sigurd/Siegfried that will give you a small taste for the Sagas ...

In the V�lsunga saga, Sigurd is the posthumous son of Sigmund and his second wife, Hiordis. Sigmund dies in battle when he attacks Odin (who is in disguise), and Odin shatters Sigmund's sword. Dying, Sigmund tells Hiordis of her pregnancy and bequeaths the fragments of his sword to his unborn son.
Sigurd agrees to kill Fafnir, who has turned himself into a dragon in order to be better able to guard the gold. Sigurd has Regin make him a sword, which he tests by striking the anvil. The sword shatters, so he has Regin make another. This also shatters. Finally, Sigurd has Regin make a sword out of the fragments that had been left to him by Sigmund. The resulting sword, Gram, cuts through the anvil. To kill Fafnir the dragon, Regin advises him to dig a pit, wait for Fafnir to walk over it, and then stab the dragon. Odin, posing as an old man, advises Sigurd to dig trenches also to drain the blood, and to bathe in it after killing the dragon; bathing in Fafnir's blood confers invulnerability. Sigurd does so and kills Fafnir; Sigurd then bathes in the dragon's blood, which touches all of his body except for one of his shoulders where a leaf was stuck. Regin then asked Sigurd to give him Fafnir's heart for himself. Sigurd drinks some of Fafnir's blood and gains the ability to understand the language of birds. Birds advise him to kill Regin, since Regin is plotting Sigurd's death. Sigurd beheads Regin, roasts Fafnir's heart and consumes part of it. This gives him the gift of "wisdom" (prophecy).

For anyone who collects German swords and daggers my best advice would be to read some of the old Norse legends, you'll gain a lot of insight into why the Germans held them in such high esteem.

Cheers!

Bill

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3/3

Look at the facial expression of the head basher.Like he's having a great time.


Something art does to religion,mythology,& legends that for me makes it even more intresting and appealing.

Here's a postcard dealing with a German legend (I think) and is postaly dated 1905.


Not sure what the German text means but from breif online reading I think Lorelei drown herself in a river over love then turned into a siren that would sing hypnotic music that lured sailors to their death.

At Bacharach, a blonde sorceress there was,
Who made all men perish from love.

So the French poet Guillaume Apollinaire described the Lorelei, and so we see her, a golden-haired girl whose irresistible song attracted the vessels of the Rhine and led them to shipwreck.

Though the legend has probably lived in the hearts of Rhine sailors since antiquity, the Lorelei we know dates from the beginning of the 19th century. The famous crag overhanging the waters of the Rhine downstream from Bacharach was the subject of legends long before the Lorelei appeared on the scene, however.

Situated at one of the most dangerous passes in the Rhine, the rock inspired fear and curiosity because of its echo, which was believed to possess the powers of an oracle. When ships approached, passengers shouted questions about their fates. According to anonymous 12th century verses, dwarfs perched on the rock sent back answers through the echo. The crag also figured in the epic poem the Nibelungenlied. The hero, Siegfried, possessed a treasure, but the villain, Hagen, killed Siegfried and threw the treasure into the Rhine not far from the echoing rock.

In 1801, in his novel Godwi, the German poet Clemens Brentano published a ballad, "Lora-Lay,� set in medieval times. He claimed to have created the myth by leading his readers to believe that the Lorelei was a part of popular folklore. His heroine, "so beautiful and so slender," was summoned by the bishop on account of the havoc she was wreaking among the local menfolk.

My lord bishop, make me die;
I am weary of life,
For all must perish
Who gaze into my eyes.

The young girl, victim of an evil spell that was fatal even for her, had another reason to beg for death: her lover had been unfaithful and had left her. But the bishop, charmed like all the others, could not bring himself to condemn her to death and sent her to a convent. On her way, she climbed a rock to take one last look at the waters of the Rhine. On the horizon she perceived a sail, and thought her lover was returning.

My heart with joy is full,
That must, must be my love!
And then the lass bent down
And plunged into the Rhine.

To Brentano, who was twenty-three when he wrote the tale, the poor girl was the victim of her feelings and of her own gaze. She incarnated the curse of love. This theme was popular with other Romantics, who were fascinated by her at about the same age. Both Joseph Eichendorff and Apollinaire were twenty-two when they took up the tale, and the German poet Heinrich Heine was twenty-five. Eichendorff s contribution was significant because he added to the legend. In his version, put to music by Robert Schumann, the Lorelei is dressed in black with a white veil and wears a crown of pearls in her blond hair.

In Heine's version, the Lorelei is associated with the sirens of the Odyssey whose voices called sailors to their death. There is no longer anything about her magic gaze. Brentano's notion of the siren's fatal gaze was not taken up again until the 20th century. Apollinaire, inspired by the famous rock, wrote:

My heart becomes so tender - it is my lover
approaching
And then she leaned forward and fell in the
Rhine
For she, had seen in the water the beauteous
Loreley,
Her eyes the color of the Rhine, her hair of sun.



B~

Wish I had 1/10 of your writting talent Bill.
That was a really intresting and in depth write up that I learned allot from. Thanks for that.

Another image of a warrior being schooled by an elder.I wonder what words of wisdom he's offering.

With so much material of this type it's no wonder the generations that were brought up on this stuff turned out to be such a fierce and patriotic fighting force.

Dean,

You've got a fine collection of postcards, really an excellent cultural study. History and legend seem to blend well together.

By the way, that nice compliment about my writing skill is undeserved, I just cobbled that together from a couple of encyclopedias ... ... I'll add some more brief, borrowed explanations here to help describe your latest image.

The elder you mention is none other than Wotan or Odin. Wotan, in Norse Mythology was a warrior sovereign, and is often seen as the primary god. The Nazis used the archetype of Wotan because of his "Warrior-King" traits, but many of even the top ranking officials believed in the Mythological character as more than merely Archetype. Josef Goebbels, in his conference notes once made the remark regarding what was to be let known about the Nazi agenda for the post-war period, said, "We will of course not let them know about Wotan. (Woden)". More remarkably, Wotan, or Odin, was rumored to have hung himself on a tree to obtain knowledge which was granted him, and gave his victory in doing so gave him the ability to travel freely in the nether-worlds (like hell) or in the heavens. The Nazis at the highest level intended after Europe was in their control, to assimilate the Church, and re-interpret such central doctrines as Christ's crucifixtion and victory over death, with the keys to Heaven and Hell in terms of old Norse Legend, or as it was referred to as 'volkish mysticism'. Wotan or Odin is also said to have learned runes in this way, which fascinated the Nazis.(the swastika is an example of a rune)

On the young warrior's shield we can see, "Bund der Deutschen in B�hmen," or League of Germans in Bohemia. That will bring us to this ...

Lands constituting German Bohemia were historically an integral part of the Habsburgs Kingdom of Bohemia but, with the imminent collapse of Habsburg Austria-Hungary at the end of World War I, areas of the Czech-majority Bohemia with an ethnic German majority who began to take actions to avoid joining a new Czechoslovak state. On 27 October 1918, the Egerland region declared independence from Bohemia and a day later the independence of Czechoslovakia was proclaimed in the Bohemian capital of Prague.

On 11 November 1918, Emperor Charles I of Austria relinquished power and, on 12 November, the ethnic German areas of the empire were declared the Republic of German Austria with the intent of unifying with Germany. The Province of German Bohemia (German: Provinz Deutschb�hmen) was formed from the part of Bohemia containing the most ethnic Germans (however, ethnic German areas of southwestern Bohemia in the Bohemian Forest Region were added to Upper Austria instead of German Bohemia). The capital of the province was Liberec.

In late November 1918, the Czechoslovak army began an invasion of German Bohemia and during December it occupied whole area of the region with Liberec falling on 16 December and the last major city, Litom??ice, falling on 27 December 1918. The status of German areas in Bohemia and Moravia was definitively settled by the 1919 peace treaties of Versailles and Saint-Germain-en-Laye that declared that the areas belong to Czechoslovakia. The Czechoslovak Government then granted amnesty for all activities against the new state.
The region was then reintegrated into the Bohemian Land of the First Republic of Czechoslovakia and remained a part of it until the Nazi dismemberment of Czechoslovakia when it was added to Sudetenland. After World War II, the area was returned to Czechoslovakia. Most of the remaining German population living in the region following the War were driven out of the country; many of these persons were killed or died during their flight from the attacking Czech and Soviet armies.

The date of the Christmas greeting, December 20, 1918, on your card coincides perfectly with the events depicted and those described - neat!

Bill

Your being modest in estimating your knowledge and talent,but that's about what I'd expected.
Anyways, thanks for the better appreciation for the postcard because of this extra info.

I think the plan you mentioned for post war 'volkish mysticism' is intresting and am wondering who in the N.S. government were the biggest fans of this and how big was Hitler on it from a propaganda point of view and on a personal beleif point of view?

Also this thread shows how this art was displayed for generations and generations before the 3rd Reich era.Are these beliefs/practices now pretty much gone in modern day Europe?

Dean,

I believe Himmler was the chief proponent behind many of the new laws in store for conquered territories and peoples that were thoroughly steeped in v�lkisch tenets. Rosenberg was a big-believer too, but far, far less influential. I would also think that German culture in general, hand-in-hand with a healthy dose of romantic mysticism, was a common thread that ran through many German and National Socialist minds of the time? Hitler, G�hring and Goebbels may have been far too pragmatic, especially once the war had started, than to entertain themselves with fanciful thoughts of old legends and tales, though, each was very well-versed and familiar with the subject matter. To Himmler, more than any of the others, these thoughts and notions played an important role and even dominated his perception of the world around him, a brave new world in which he would have the power to shape and create - frightening.

I really can't say how much of an influence the old epics have in today's modern German culture? I'd venture to say no more than American kids pay attention to old lore and fairy tales? However, the old warrior legends do tend to make for exciting Xbox gaming, so I'm told ...

Best!

B~

I really liked the art on this one.
Measures about 16 x 12

Back

Middle

Post card

Postcard #2 from same lot.
Amazing penmanship and writing skills these generations possessed.
Shows yet just another example of how civilization has reached it's peak and has been in the state of decline for some time now.JMO

Dean,

"Unser Volk in Waffen" is one of the German classics written about the First World War. I believe Christian Speyer did the illustrations, which are some of the best military depictions out there. His drawing style reminds me of the work of one of his famous contemporaries, Paul Casberg, a personal favorite. Those are some fabulous uniform studies that you've posted, talk about photo-realism with a pencil.

The postcards have that distinct imperial look to them, there's a feeling to these images that's somehow almost tangible? The Hohenzollern/German eagle chasing the proud French cock back over the border is mindful of the Belgians herding the German swine home, too. Very powerful in black and white, it immediately focuses one's attention on the two birds and the banner headline, "Steadfast and True, The Watch Over the Rhine..."

The second illustration makes me think of the artwork that's found on German military beersteins. Very colorful line-art of the artillery boys bombarding the Fortress of Reims.
Great use of the searchlight's cone of vision to highlight the stronghold, the wisps of smoke playing through the light are especially well rendered.

Lots of outstanding graphics here!

B~

Again WWII, great verbal interpetation on the postcard.I totally missed the searchlight cone of vision and the wisps of smoke details that you picked up on.

Seriously I think you would have mad talent for auction write ups.

In trying to keep this thread going here's a 7 X 5 ex libris that I know absolutely nothing about but had to pay dearly for (at least on my budget) so kind of hoping it turns out to be something good.

To me it seemed to me be type of art that had the message conveyed idea going on.
Not knowing German I kind of thought it had the life and death theme behind it but just guessing.
It seems to be signed at the bottom.

There is evidence of it being once attatched and there is also a penciled name of W. Rehn-1925 plus a series of numbers on the back.

Looked cool to me but if it doesn't fall into the lines of the thread don't hesitate to pull it.

Art close up

Dean,

Looks pretty cool if you ask me and falls dead on concerning this thread and don't think it should be pulled. I'm sure Bill will know more about this. His insight and calibrated eyes are phenomenal.

Thanks for the nice words Mikee.
Agree with you on Bill's talent's which he is so modest about.
How great is it to have access to all the great minds on this forum.

Dean,
Some might find these themes appalling but I find them somewhat appealing and tend to focus strictly on the art form and talent it takes to create such things. I guess in many cultures including Germany, skeletons were and still are a popular theme. Some I guess more so than others and no doubt a popular theme due to events in history or believe. I have an old deer antler that was carved in Germany with skeletons, an interesting piece that Bill identified as Franz Liszt�s Totentanz or Danse Macabre.

I think we are very fortunate indeed!

Sounds interesting.Do you happen to have a link?
Also, any idea on how old you think it is?

Along with the skeletons in German culture I've been seeing quite a few owls.
One exlibris book plate even had the owl eyeballing a skull.Unfortunately I wasn't able to get that one.

Wish it was as easy for me to focus on the art form and talent involved but there's allot I don't know about the subject.Just trying to learn along the way.

Dean,
Owls play a big part in folklore. In some cultures Owls are associated with death, probably due to their nocturnal life, while others view the owl as wise. We are a strange creature us humans. I'll try to post a picture of the carved antler for you.

Dean,

Here it is, a portion of it anyway. Please continue to post your nice collection. It's very much appreciated by us art lovers. Thanks.

Holy Crap.What a find.
I wasn't expecting a mueseum type piece like this.
That's stunningly impressive.

Dean,

Delete it, no way! This is exactly the sort of thing I'd like to bring to the fore - the German mindset before, during and after the First World War. For those that might give a small rat's behind, these great illustrations give us a candid peek into some of the myriad smaller ideas that blended together in a vast cauldron of thoughts and emotions that helped shape 1933 Germany - non-Nazis and National Socialists alike.

Your latest addition (looks like an engraving of some nature) is also a variation on the theme of the "Totentanz," or "Dance of Death." A very old European idea regarding the "Black Plague" dating way back to the 13th century, with the outbreak of the disease on the continent.

The traumatic impact of the Black Death inspired a rich tradition of "Totentanz", "Danse Macabre", or "Triumph of Death", paintings; and since the Middle Ages, throughout the Renaissance until today, painters, such as Bosch, Brueghel, Holbein, and many others, have ritually cleansed our subconscious of this archetypal fear with fantastic, and sometimes humorously horrible, images of dancing corpses and armies of skeletons. Those images contained a moral message as well: they were to remind us of how fragile our bodies were and how vain the glories of earthly life are.

The artist who did this card must have had a dark sense of humor to send this off to his friends, and I think I can see the reason why. In the last line of his poem he uses the phrase, "Gl�ck auf!" An old German/Austrian miner's saying, literally, Luck-up, but in other words, hope to see you topside again, or, cheers to your next ride up! The old miner's suffered tremendously back then, a time when casualty-lists were extremely high for the poor buggers. Safety measures were almost non-existant and must have been an awful irritant to the big mining bosses. Those safety measures cost money, with those Marks and Schillings coming directly out of their profits/pockets ... not! Anyway, it's an old miner's greeting for a dangerous profession and
I believe it comes into play here:

"Mein Futter wird vom Tragen blank u. weiss
Mein Aussres schwarz u. fahl:
Zum Jahresende wende ich lebensleis
Den Mantel jedesmal
Gl�ck auf und glaub dir der bestimmt Sein anders schon fur besser nimmt."

auf englisch -

"My liner worn clean and white
My outer black and wan
On New Year's Eve I turn the coat with feeble life
Luck up and believe ordained to you
is he who takes his "other" yet as better..."

I may be off a bit but it's something along these lines..? German poetry, old limericks and rhymes can be a real thorn in the side and open to several interpretations. A few times I've seen 19th century, German military presentation swords with lines of poetry that stumped the best of the best translators, causing heated arguments. That is until an older gentleman came along and put it into context in it's true poetic sense and viola,' at once the meaning became crystal clear! Sometimes, the art of a good translation can be difficult at best.

So for better or for worse, that's my take on the image and I hope we now have at least one leg to stand on..? heh ...I'd appreciate hearing any and all criticisms and comments, maybe I've overlooked a key element somewhere along the line? Sorry it took so long to get back on this one but those poems can be a killer!

Thanks again for posting from your nice art collection!

Bill

Bill, Thanks for all this info and input.

I'm liking the idea that just maybe the artist possibly knew first hand about the subject matter from life experiences.

It really adds to the art and gives it a 'learn from my wisdom' quality that the artist delivers in both poetry and in art form.

Your comment about how some of these death images portrayed 'how vain the glories of earthly life are' was awesome and I kept the thought in mind after stepping out into the world last night and saw this and the fragility of life theory going on everywhere.

Here it is almost 100 years later and the same thing still exist only in a slightly different way.Probably will till the end of civilization.

I'm starting to see your point clearer and clearer about "the affect of the imperial graphic and visual-arts was a definitive contributing factor in shaping the perceptions of those that took the reins of the NS hierarchy."

Great thread.I'm learning about art and more.

Dean,

Here I thought I was the only one to get up at such an ungodly time of day ...

A card like this or other image can convey many important messages, some very subtle and some blunt and to the point. Either way, they should be consumed as food for thought. It seems also that the more one knows the history behind some of these items, the more intriguing they can become. Sometimes I think about how it would feel to walk down the street in 1905 Wien or Berlin, to get a newspaper and go to the bar to hear questions of the day being discussed at the Biergarten? Art, literature, politics, science - almost anything would be interesting,
no? That's what some of the postcards remind me of, little snippets or candid snapshots of ordinary life.

Though some may convey deep meanings like this last one, I seem to favor those pieces of art that focus on nature, mainly animals and such.
Anything from a cartoon caricature to a realistic painting, as long as I like it, then it's a done-deal. In that way I'm only judging the artist's skill I guess, not the meaning behind it too? Maybe it makes things simpler that way?

Mikee - I forgot how impressive that carving was! That must've made your day when you found that ... thanks for hooking us up.

A few more animal illustrations by Professor Sturm ...

Best to all!

B~

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quote:

Originally posted by WWII:

Though some may convey deep meanings like this last one, I seem to favor those pieces of art that focus on nature, mainly animals and such.
Anything from a cartoon caricature to a realistic painting, as long as I like it, then it's a done-deal. In that way I'm only judging the artist's skill I guess, not the meaning behind it too? Maybe it makes things simpler that way?

B~

I think your absolutely right.
Maybe by thinking and over analysis on some pieces it takes something away from them.
Maybe on others the artist wanted to provoke thought and made sure only a few would truly get the meaning after paying their dues.

It's kind of refreshing to view the animal art you posted where there is just a great skilled presentation with nothing more to really think about other than it pleases the eye or not.

Simplicity in a world where there's many complexities is refreshing,tranquil,and just a great change of pace.

Something to be said for the peaceful calming effect of art that you don't have to think about (whoops, guess I'm over thinking it already).

Forgot to ask you Bill, are the last 3 Sturm examples you posted wood block prints?

WWII,
I know you said "no photos please, artwork only", but I have a postcard that shows artwork on a old German building.

I'm thinking this art may date back to Imperial times and it was displayed in a very public place so perhaps it had some effect on shaping NS culture and may be relevant to this thread.

Hoping I'm not out of line or breaking your rules in posting it.

I promise to give the skeleton thing a rest after this one also.

As you probably can see the clock/art is actually on the face of the building on the left hand side.

Kind of curious if this beautiful building and it's clock are still in existence today.

Any info appreciated.

Close up of art/clock

Dean,

One heck of a nice postcard. I don't think it is? Altes Rathaus, Closeup

I think that's it but the clock art changed.
I'm going to try to find out when and why the art got changed around.
Thanks for the help.

A weird postcard.
1901 Friedland cancelation.
I think it's German by the writting and adressed to Friedland i/ Meckl ???
Thought it has a little bit of a Nouveau look to it.Strange or what?

Postcard w/ a 1902 cancellation.
Photo taken in it's protective sleve due to it's condition.
German?

Dean,

This just gets better all the time ... let me see if I can add a few tidbits of info ...

"Probably he who has the last hour of life in front of his eyes." In this case most likely the good looking young maiden having her "last dance with death." Beautiful, obscenely ugly, young, old and in-between, I guess sooner or later we all take our turn to have that final dance ..?

A very Nouveau flavor to your next card, though, I don't think too awfully strange for that date. I've seen lots of Jugendstil illustrations that combine natural overtones with the fantastic, like this oddfellow. Perhaps an elf, woodnymph or satyr-like being? If that was my daughter I wouldn't want her anywhere near this old boy, possibly a take on Beauty and the Beast? Quite unique.

The last one is my personal favorite of this group - definitely German. "Deutschland �ber Alles," underneath the sword pommel pretty much clinches that. As to the warrior or maybe even king, my first instinct says Charlemagne, or possibly even Wotan in disguise as he often did? The two crows could lend a bit of credence to that, Wotan's spies were a pair of crows, Hugin and Munin. Great image and a nice painting!

Do you guys know the work of John Heartfield? I really like his photomontage compositions and I'll see if I can find a couple of his relevant works.

In the meantime I wanted to ask, how did you come to choose these particular cards and bookplates to purchase for your collection? Was there a particular theme in mind? These are all a bit out of the ordinary from average imperial postcard collections. Well done and thanks for sharing them.

Best!

Bill

WWII-
Thank you for your takes on these.

In answering your question it goes back to what you asked about why people choose the art they do.For me it's usually the message before quality,subject,or artist technique.

You sure know how to put a image into words well Bill.
Last dance with death & I guess sooner or later we all have that final dance couldn't describe the clock photo any better and draws me to the art more and more.What talent for description.

Looked at some of Heartfield's photo's and even recognized a few.

Bill, Those illustrations are so full of color, very nice and impressive work. I love animal art as well. Your right I was a happy camper when I found that antler. You must have a ton of art work and hope this thread never runs out. Much appreciated and thank you.

Dean, Like Bill that last post card from this group is my favorite as well. And agree with Bill that it's a depiction of Charlemagne, due to his unmistakable great crown, and his sword Joyeuse. I know this because I have seen much of these treasures in person. Let me add that the German word Siebenb�rgen means seven fortresses, because of the seven ethnic German Saxon cities in that region. This is why Transylvania was known in German as Siebenb�rgen ... Keep it coming!

Mikee,

Always a pleasure reading your keen insights, much appreciated.

Up for consideration a few of Heartfield's powerful anti-Nazi images. Dynamic and intelligent, most of his artwork was just as brutal as the Brownshirts and Reds were, right there in your face!

One of my all-time favorites would have to be, "Adolf the Uebermensch" - he swallows gold and spouts tin..."

Heartfield's visuals could be as bitng and crafty as anything old Goebbels could verbally pen, heh. Both men could be judged as having very "sharp swords" in their repertoire.

Best!

Bill

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3/3

Bill,
This is great stuff. Although the 2nd one looks familar, I don't believe I 've seen this stuff before. He sure had a sense of humor. I can imagine the wanted "dead or alive" posters on him. This is better than a Dean Martin roast!

One of my favorite Jugend covers by Jank

Nice.
Hard to choose a favorite Jugend cover.
Great art.

L,

Do you have more Jugend magazine covers tucked away, or just the one? It's a fantastic illustration, I'd like to own the original of this one!

The Jugend covers that I've seen portray such a wide variety of interesting subject matter and on top of that, all those accomplished artists and their different mediums to see. Some just knocked my socks clean off ...

For any of you fellas who might enjoy looking at some fine German Jugendstil/Art Nouveau drawings and designs, I highly recommend searching the web to check out some of these printed covers. This can be a most pleasant diversion and/or time out from looking at fake SS armbands and Totenkopf rings ... heh.

Best to all, please keep these nice images coming!

Bill

Hi Bill, no other Jugend covers yet - Ludwig Hohlwein is another fantastic artist of the period - this second picture isn't original but looks great next to (some) of the Imperial visor collection

Luke

closeup

I also collect Cavalry postcards. Hohlwein and D�brich-Steglitz were tops in that category (in my opinion) - I'd love to own the original full size painting of any of these pictures, just outstanding - I especially love this one - it sits next to my 20th Leib Dragoner Regt visor, wrong regiment in the picture, but they shared colours .... nothing more noble (or as it turns out in modern war, futile and suicidal) than a sword drawn cavalry charge

Luke

Another great DS postcard and last for tonight -earmarked to sit next to the right J�ger zu Pferd visor, whenever it happens to come along

Luke

OK...one more - sits with my (soon to be sold for an upgrade) 11th Husaren Visor. But I'll keep the postcard, like it alot and rare as hens teeth

Luke,

Your visor looks to be in superb condition and what an immaculate pastel-blue color - now that's awesomeness!

I recognize Hohlwein's distinctive work and I scarfed up a few additional paintings that I'll add to the thread. I'm sure our other readers will be better able to place him then. He's acknowledged by many as being Germany's finest, 20th century poster-artist.

Ludwig Hohlwein was born in Germany in 1874. He trained as an architect and practised until 1906 when he started a new career in poster design. He quickly established himself as one of the most important people working in this field in Germany. Hohlwein's high tonal contrasts and a network of interlocking shapes made his work instantly recognizable. Hohlwein was employed by the German government during the First World War to produce propaganda posters. He died in 1949.

These Kavallerie impressions are all first class and I can see why you collect them. Three individual styles paying tribute to the grand, long-gone imperial mounted regiments - outstanding! Thanks for including these ...

... some more of Hohlwein's work to enjoy.

Best!

Bill W.

2/5

3/5

4/5

5/5

Polizist-
IMO the 'Patrouille im Morgengrauen' is really appealing because of the artist ability to create a almost erie mood to the atmosphere.Very cool.

WWII-
Thanks for the additional photo's that display this guys talents.
I love both the big cat pics but my favorite has to be the 'Und Du' piece.
I looked for additional info on it but didn't find much.I'm interested in finding out something more on it if possible.

Dean,

I've seen that poster listed as being first printed in 1929 and also as first appearing for the 1932-33 elections - don't know which is correct? It also appears on the cover of Peter Adam's book, "Art of the Third Reich." - no details there either, just the image.

If you check out Hohlwein on www.google.de
you'll find the "Und Du?" poster for sale, should you be so inclined ... lots of his other images, too.

B~

This is one of a series of depictions of brave aerial warfare during the Imperial Era. They were actually drawn a bit later.

Dave

LOL Dave.
What a areodynamic flying marvel.

WWII Thanks for the additional info.
I was wondering what "And You' was refering to and who commisioned the artwork in this case.

I looked for the poster with the link you provided but my German language skills are terrible.

Don't know if I could afford the original poster like this anyway.Do you know if the art was ever used in postcard form?

Dave,

oh-oh ... looks like he's going down behind enemy lines this time!

Dean - sorry it's taken a while, been sick as a dog the past couple weeks ...

I'm not sure if they ever made a postcard of this one? I saw somewhere that it was used as a right-wing political campaign poster during one of the elections, possibly early thirties? I think Hohlwein was directly available to the government but I'm not certain if it was as a freelance artist or directly under the employ of..? Also not sure if the image belonged to Hitler or to one of the other candidates or parties?

This image at card-size would make for a nice minimalist beauty in a simple wooden frame. A very strong graphic that one, like the famous Hitler black and white campaign poster. To me it conveys everything you need to know in a fraction of an instant, a clear precise thought with little or no chance of being misunderstood. The unknown soldier asks us all directly, point-blank, "and you..?" - implying, and what are you doing for our country? In a similar vein this other old postcard graphic, two Frontsoldaten confront the viewer with another loaded statement, something even more direct, "We're dying for you! And you?" - please friend, tell us your big accomplishments? I think that kind of question would be enough to put almost anyone in a bit of a tight spot..? The "right-stuff" for any good propaganda department.

Instead of an original costly Hohlwein print, perhaps a good illustrated book could be found for well under a hundred bucks? That would be a fairly good substitute, eh?

Looking forward to seeing some new artwork fellas, how about sharing a scan or two with us?

Thanks and good collecting to all.

Best!

Bill

Gents,

Something on a much lighter note ...

Here's another fine old bookplate I thought some might enjoy, a simple line-drawing of an old Greek athlete holding/delivering a book while mounted atop a flying fish. To be more specific the fish is a Gurnard, also known as "der fliegende Seehahn," or "flying sea-rooster." This bizarre, ornate fish was also depicted much earlier around 1785-97, by Marcus Elieser Bloch. His book is claimed by many to be the most beautiful book on fishes that was ever printed. The hand-colored illustrations are often highlighted with metallic-silver finishes.

Anyway, I thought it was a great unusual image to share, hope you might think so too ...

Best!

Bill

2/2

Here's "lighter" - I actually have grown a bit fond of the P.O.E. postcard series, this one I just picked up also is a good example of the value of the EK2

Luke

Naval version ... not purchased this one yet, but shows the continued theme of this postcard series

another I picked up this week - a Husaren charge (very few of those on the Western Front after 1914 ) with EK in the top corner ... I guess if you charged like that that versus an entrenched unit with Vickers and Lewis MG's and lived, you deserved at least an EK2

Luke

quote:

Originally posted by Polizist:
I guess if you charged like that that versus an entrenched unit with Vickers and Lewis MG's and lived, you deserved at least an EK2

Luke

Good point Polizist.

WWII I don't what's tripier the bookplate or the reality photo.

Luke,

Good additions ... these can go to show just how far the thread of German-militarism was woven into the fabric of normal life at that time. The first two cards seem to blend the innocence of youth, regional appeal - in the young girl's style of dress, and the military pride in which every young German should aspire to - winning the coveted EKII, f�r Gott, Kaiser und Heimat. Take all of that, roll it into the personage of two cherubic, little kids and viola', there you have it - "Give me your young..." and get 'em ready early, folks. heh. The form and shape of human butchery can take on many guises, even harmless children. It really works well.

I didn't mean to take this "lighter" example and turn it into something dark or greusome, but then again, that's about the downright truth and reality of it. A small recruiting poster for the inevitable - war and murder. But, if there is an "up" or "lighter-side," we can see how impressive winning the Iron Cross was back then, mostly EKII's for enlisted men. An EM with both the first and second-class Iron Crosses would have probably made a young lad's eyes pop out if he spied them together on a soldier's uniform! That most likely would have been a very brave man you were looking at. Look at Hitler's praise for the award from time to time during the course of dialog, he was very, very proud of having earned his. By the end of the Second World War an Iron Cross of either class wasn't worth much any more, they said they were handing them out left and right...

Now that's a tasty Hussar silohouette! Amazing how the artist thought to fit that second figure in there too - brilliant, ha! Great contrast between the bold horsemen and those thin, wispy smoke clouds drawn in a very light hand. All topped off with a beautiful, tightly rendered EK and oak-sprig all captioned by the urgent war cry, "Hard at/on top of 'em..!"

You did well to grab this one up, it's a real beauty, got it all for me - very nice!

Dean, I like both the imaginary and naturalistic, especially when the two are combined. But let there be no doubt, nobody can top Mother Nature when it comes to shapes, patterns and color. She's got a most intense palette that man cannot quite yet duplicate, too! Hues so bright and vivid in fish and fowl, it staggers even the camera-lens! Now that's cool ...

Best!

Bill

quote:

Originally posted by WWII:
But let there be no doubt, nobody can top Mother Nature when it comes to shapes, patterns and color. She's got a most intense palette that man cannot quite yet duplicate, too! Hues so bright and vivid in fish and fowl, it staggers even the camera-lens! Now that's cool ...

Agree 100%.
If salt water marine life is not enough to convince us then try some photo's of the solar system.
I can face the fact that mankind is a pee-on in the grand scheme of it all, but we do try hard to over estimate our importance.
Just like you said 'let there be no doubt' but when there starts to be were put back in our place soon enough.

I picked up a few more items.
1) A 1917 postcard w/ Germania getting ready to lead the troop.
What made this card appealing IMO was the old farmer with the sickle looking like he's honing his multi purpose tool and getting ready to join in the fight and showcase some old school skills.(Just my take on it).

Card is used, mailed, & marked Reserve=Infantry=Regiment Nr.110

2)A trimmed (unfortunately) postcard that I feel might be relavent to the thread being this kind of art that was floating around Europe during the times when future N.S. leaders would have been exposed to it.
This one appears to be by Mih�ly Zichy (1827- 1906) A Hungarian painter and graphic artist who was a student of Waldm�ller's in Vienna 1844.
Who would sends this kind of postcard?Not your typical Hallmark moment.

3)Along the same lines of the previous photo is this large print on a very heavy stiff paper that has a small embossed seal in the shape of a globe saying:1892 The Worlds Columbian Exposition Chicago Illinois 1893

On the print's top it says: Copyrighted 1893 by George Barrie.

The artist name printed on it is E Rossette Granger.Looks like he was french and born in 1853 and died 1942.I honestly don't know who had more talent, the artist or the engraver.

Looks pretty crazy in person and especially under magnification.Ugly subject matter but all the lines that make up the waves are beautiful and look to be labor intense.
Any thoughts on if this notion is right or what type of print this is Bill?

The photo does not do it any justice.Seems as it may have been framed a couple times judging by the differences in color tones in the margins.

Death appears to have been a fairly common theme in Europe judging by how much of this art is out there.

Dean,

I've always held a special place for marine life of all kinds, from the smallest krill to the largest whale and especially all those new species of deep-sea critters that scientists are discovering almost every other day.
Absolutely wonderful and amazing creatures.

Funny thing is that we want to talk to extra-terrestials and we can't even communicate with these guys, what's up with that..?

The caption on your new postcard reads, "We'll
keep them (the enemy) far away from our homeland's pastures."

I believe it goes to show just how important the bond was between the military and farmers. I don't think one could exist without the other - a viable case of symbiosis.

No, I don't think the peasants are going to jump into the fray any time too soon here, though the Russians would come after you with scythes and pitchforks and it would kill you just as dead as a bullet from any rifle ...

Could that be Joan of Arc pictured in your second example? I mean, one just doesn't normally go around toasting up lovely ladies like this without good reasons, eh?

I like the third one too, a bit unusual but great talent in the rendering. If you use magnification do you see little rosette dot-patterns or just straight lines? If you can let me know I'll try to figure out the printing method for you.

Good to see your latest additions, I always look forward to them.

Gracias!

Bill

quote:

Originally posted by WWII:
I've always held a special place for marine life of all kinds, from the smallest krill to the largest whale and especially all those new species of deep-sea critters that scientists are discovering almost every other day.
Absolutely wonderful and amazing creatures.

Funny thing is that we want to talk to extra-terrestials and we can't even communicate with these guys, what's up with that..?
Bill

You know Bill,thats a damn good point.
I think the best we could hope for is to mimic nature but definitely never duplicate or surpass.
To me this is laughable.

Heres a small reference in regards to your nature's intense palette statement.

http://hubblesite.org/gallery/album/nebula/

Thank you for the translation and your take on the art.

Joan of Arc never crossed my mind on picture #2. I thought it was just your basic witch burning at the stake.Good insight and something to consider.

Print #3 has no little rosette dots just lots and lots of well defined lines.If you need a camera close up let me know what kind of shot would be helpful. I do not have a scanner though, plus it's way too big anyhow.

Here's a few more cards.
Trying to keep it somewhat normal this time around.

1)Postcard with Munchen correspondence dated 7/5/1915

2)1913 Kelheim postcard.
What impressed me on this art was the colors used made it almost appear as if it was a photo taken during a sunset.
Any idea's on what the eagles are perched on?

Back of Kelheim card.

3) Postcard that the seller described as 1910's - 1920's.She was real big on horses.

Can't read German but guessing it may have to do with team work between man and animal.
Reminded me of how the laws of nature were way back when.Looks like just another day in the life and I don't know who's prouder of their acheivement the horse or the warrior.

On back is printed:Bund der Deutchen in Bohmen.

Probably my favorite of the 3.

Dean,

Another fine trio of beauties!

Could send me a large file of the line image so that I can have a close look at it? I'll try to determine what the process was. I'd guess a good line-reproduction of an original engraving?


The first new card you've posted is captioned with the phrase, "May God Punish England." This often used epithet was similar to "Wir fahren gegend England," both being catchy war rhetoric.

The second card is nice, having illustrations on both sides - the lovely memorial and victorious war sovereigns on the reverse. I believe the eagle is perched atop one of those early, ornately cast 17th century cannon barrels?

The third would have to be my favorite too... what a gem! The "Fellowship of Germans living in Bohemia," produced the card. They must have been fed up with the percieved injustices against the German minority who lived in that region and were letting it be known openly that they were fed up with the oppression and going to do something about it.

They picked a fantastic painting to illustrate their point, an old Germanic warrior and his charger looking at their home. It's amazing how calm the scene is, until one sees the bloody sword blade and you read the poem ...

"You want to disturb my home?

I showed you all a man's sinew

and laughing I dry my sword

on my stallion's black mane."

I reckon if you popped one of these cards in the mail people would immediately get your intentions?

This would have to be in-the-running for best card of the thread so far, man, what a keeper! Whatever your methods and reasoning for choosing cards is/are, don't change anything ...

Best!

B~

Wow Bill,you really put postcard #3 into perspective for me with the translation.

I didn't know what Sinew meant so I found a few definitions:
1.A tendon.
2.Vigorous strength; muscular power.
3.The source or mainstay of vitality and strength.

Any guesses if sinew as used in the quote is being used in terms of the strength of this warrior or maybe a gruesome reference to the tendons now showing on the gutted stiffs this guy just did in?
Also,any thought if it's by chance the artist portrayed the victorious warrior as blond haired and the 2 slain not, to try to bring a clearer visual message.

I'm learning quite a bit off this thread.Thanks for starting it and giving me access to all this info that I would of never known about otherwise.

Hi Dean,

I'd say in this case the word sinew refers to the champion's vigor and strength, nothing to do with his opponent's flayed tendons and gristle.

The artist could very well have been trying to emphasize the point of race or tribe by portraying the victor with blond hair, but that would simply be an assumption on my part. Whatever the case, it's attention to small details that can bring an illustration to life ...

... always glad to share what little I know with you fine gentlemen.

Best!

Bill

Knight postcard with beautiful art IMO.
Close up details like the lines between the horses teeth and slits in the visor.
Printing on back has something about 'Der Raugraf' & Julius Wolff.

Card 2 was described to be from 1910-1920 and I thought the art had a stained glass look.Anyone know what it's about?
Thanks for looking.

Dean,

Here is summary for you; That is Wartburg castle shown on your post card which is near Eisenach, Germany. Your post card is from an original painting by Moritz Ludwig von Schwind 1854 and it�s called �St. Elisabeth�s departure from Wartburg castle� That is St. Elisabeth on your post card with halo and children. She was born in Sarospatak, Hungary and the daughter of King Andrew ll of Hungary. The princess and future Queen of Hungary was sent to Wartburg from Hungary by her mother at the age of four to be raised and to marry the Earl of Thuringia, Ludwig IV, which she did at the age of 14. She was well known for her charity work for the poor and died in Marburg at the age of 24, shortly after she was pronounced a saint by the Catholic Church. If you wish to read more about her life, St. Elisabeth. Nice artworks shown by all. Thank you. Regards

Hi Mikee, hows it going?

Thank you for the info and link to get me going.
Great stuff that interest me.I really liked the photograph of the mosaic it contained.

Before posting I googled what was on the card and all the links were in German so you've been a real help.
I appreciate your post.

Hey Dean,

Always more than glad to help. Here's a picture of "Elisabeth's chamber". It's a great room with a huge fireplace. There's also an old painting of her in the Wartburg and if you wish to see it,just let me know. Regards

Incredible and stunning!!
You actually got to tour this castle?

Hey Dean,

Yes, many many times. And glad to post the painting for you and sorry for the quality.

This oil painting is called "Elisabeth between two Apostles" and was painted by Barthel Bruyn in 1530. On Elisabeth's left is the Apostle Phillip, holding a Jacobs staff and on her right is the Apostle James the great, holding his wondering staff and Bible.

The picture is a little dark but if you look close you will notice Elisabeth is holding a Bible and on top of the Bible are two crowns, with one crown on her head. This could be interpreted as stages in her life or her social status during different times of her life as, daughter to the King, landgravine and saint.

Also wanted to mention that the fascist Labor Service was founded here in 1935. Regards

Mikee,

Thanks for the great input, Dean had me stumped
with that one ...

The first one reminds me somewhat of the term
"Raubritter," or robber-knight. Very much unlike the old Robin Hood figure who would steal from the rich and give to the poor, this breed of knight would rob the rich and keep it all for themselves! A very formidable type of highwayman.

I'm not a hundred percent certain that's what the card depicts, but I believe we're looking at the "Count of Plunder" in this illustration?

More and more I've been hearing that the old knight's were anything but the noble gentlemen that we were led to believe through Hollywood interpretations. Protectors of women, children and the meek? Rubbish! More like well-armed murderers and bandits ... heh these guys would chop you up into little pieces and feed you to their dogs for a bit of entertainment.

As usual, lots of food for thought ...

Best!

Bill

Bill, Glad to help and you are so right about Knights fighting for Counts, Lords and all at odds against each other over land and women.

Dean, Your post card is from an original painting and is based on one of Julius Wolf�s most famous novels and historical accounts in the 14th century from his home town of Quedlinburg, Germany. The name of the book is called �The Raubgraf" and your post card depicts the scene were the Raubgraf (Robbery Count), Albrecht ll von Regenstein dies by the sword to the chest at the hands of other Knights. The Raubgraf rode with six other Knights and were known as the �the bad seven�. If you would like more info about Wolf or the story just let me know and I�ll see what I can do to help. Regards.

Sounds great to me Mikee. Any and all information or interpretations on what I'm posting is very welcome and appreciated.
Thanks for contributing what you already have.

Hi guys,
More postcards.
This has a (KD Feldpostamt?) dated 7-8-16 and a square stamp w/RJR 217 12.Comp and has correspondence.

Another Jung card described as circa 1910.

Hi Dean,

Nice to see some new graphics again, I was beginning to think everyone was away on holiday?
Hope all our regular visitors are doing well with your collections and keeping busy.

You really do have an uncanny knack for picking unusual artwork ... please keep up the good work! The first card is titled, The German Tour of Battle: "You down there, wait a second, first I want to finish up with these bearers of culture." (the old German foe, the French)

Very nice, short and to the point. Looks like that berserker is going to wreak havoc among the enemy, in wide, broad, crimson strokes ...

The second is much less nationalistic in fervor,
a song, poem and folktale all wrapped into one.

Check it out ...

Erlk�nig (The Alder-King)

Johann Gottfried von Herder introduced this character into German literature in Erlk�nigs Tochter, a ballad published in his 1778 volume Stimmen der Volker in Liedern. It was based on a Danish folk ballad published in the 1739 Danske Kaempevisor. Herder undertook a free translation but mistranslated the Danish name elverkonge as "Erlk�nig", "alder king"; the confusion appears to have arisen with the German word Erle, "alder". It has generally been assumed that the mistranslation was the result of error, but it has also been suggested that Herder was imaginatively trying to identify the malevolent sprite of the original tale with a woodland demon (hence the alder king).

The story, as retold by Herder, portrays a man named Sir Oluf riding to his marriage but being entranced by the music of the elves. One of the elf maidens, the Elverkonge's daughter, appears and invites him to dance with her. He refuses and spurns her offers of gifts and gold. Angered, she strikes him and sends him on his way, deathly pale. The following morning, on the day of his wedding, his bride finds him lying dead under his scarlet cloak.

Another unhappy German ending, can ya believe it? Some of those old Grimm Br�der stories didn't have happy endings either, heh.

Thanks and best regards!

B~

Hi Bill,
Hope you and everyone else are doing well also and finally getting to enjoy some nice weather.

Sorry for not posting in a while but was wondering if my contributions were worthwhile or getting old and didn't want to be taking up too much of your time with postcards, but with you supplying these intresting and informative overview's it's difficult to stop.

Again I do appreciate the translations and input.

I had no idea what the tour of battle card was about,I just thought it had appeal due to it's heroic looking avenger. Kind of reminded me of Marvel's version of Thor only with a sword.

I picked up the Erlk�nig one mostly because I really like this artist work but also thought it was a version of a story that I heard as a kid listening to a old ghost tales record.

The story was something about a father riding with his son.The boy seems to know and see a deadly spirit trying to catch up to him,
to take his life, and he pleads and pleads with his father to speed up and heed his warnings but the dad does not believe until it's to late and the boy lies dead in his arms.

It was really a thrill to re remember this tale from my childhood after I saw this card and it was even sweeter seeing it was done by a artist that I am into.
Here's a link what I thought it was about and am now wondering if this is how the original version was told.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Der_Erlk%C3%B6nig

Thank you for bringing the variation to my attention.

New arrivals.

The signature looks like Willy Stower and a 1915 date.

I think the word Munchen is in the signing so was wondering if anyone knows for sure.
The signature is tough to read and photograph.

Postmarked 1910. Check out the hanger.
Do the letters on the sides of the red,white,and black sheild stand for German Reich?

Not a German postcard but showing this 1905 scene to show mob mentality against those who are different or not fitting an ideal and comparing it to 3rd reich society.
With Hitler being an avid reader, movie buff, and having a relative who was hunchback I would love to know what he thought of this novel due to similarities of his reich and the books issues of church vs. state and persecution of gypsies and those with physical or mental issues.
I'm trying to sneak a great postcard in by using the possibility that it may of had some type of influence on a future German leader.If anyone objects or feels it has no place on this thread feel free to say in the bin with it.
Great art IMO by a french artist Luc-Olivier Merson 1846 � 1920

Hey Dean,

Really nice post cards you have and please continue showing them, we all learn from your posts. I wish I had some to post but I only have similar themes and hope I'm not breaking protocol, but every time I look at your post card with the German giant it reminds me of my item and for the sake of this thread we can call it an "ivory post card". As you can see my giants aren't doing so well on the battle field. Regards.

Hi Mikee and glad you can relate the giant card to a item in your 1st class collection.
Is the art you posted a ivory item or Ivorex?Cool peice either way but wondering if it is a one of a kind type thing.
How about any ideas or guesses on what battle or concept it's representing? Maybe some type of mythological scene?

I agree this giant has seen better days after being stuck in the back and awaiting the final blow from the guy with the oversize specialty sword making sure the job is complete.

Hey Dean,

Thanks,it's carved from ivory and glad you can enjoy it. I think it must have something to do with one of the German tales, but which one I'm just not sure. I think the befallen giant is about to get slain by his own sword. Best!

Mikee,

That's a nice Elfenbein postcard, though, it might be hard to use as a writing surface ..

Dean,

Another outstanding set of graphics, such a wide variety of subject matter. My favorite in this group is "F�r deutsches Land das deutsche Schwert." - "For German land the German sword."

Yes, the "DR" flanking the shield stands for Deutsches Reich, the German empire.

That's some hanging device the old boy has there, I've never seen one like it in the accoutrements forum..?

Thanks to both of you for keeping the thread alive and well.

Best!

Bill

Nice Munich postcard Bill.Do you know if it's a monument or a smaller desk type statue?I like the stance the artist used.

Here's another Munich card.
On the back in small letters:
O.Z.M. 1906. Ottmar Zieher, Munchen
Looked painted to me.Any thoughts if it is?

Dean,

I'm fairly certain the bronze was strictly a desk ornament, great detail to this one.

That is a very powerful view of the Feldherrnhalle, I hope Erich gets to see this one, it's a beauty!

Methinks the graphic is photographic in nature, possibly a darker, sepia-tone type of process? The images and perspective look perfect and the heavy "curtain-rod" (?) structure was left in the image, something most artists might have normally left out in a drawing or painting due to aesthetics, no?

You might be able to have that card enlarged just a bit, which would make for an outstanding bit of artwork to hang in the collecting room.

Best!

Bill

Hi Bill-

Got to agree with you on the nice detailing of the bronze.
Have you ever seen one of these in person?
I never have.Would definately bring a great look to any desk.Thanks for sharing it.

I was undecided if the F.H.H. card should be included in your thread because it's somewhat photograhic look but the painted appearance of the ground,building's roof to the right has a very unrealistic look to it,and lack of detail on the stonework had me fooled.

The pole like hanger and realistic proportions caught my eye too and had me puzzled thinking this artist was a real master or there was something I was missing here.

If it is a photo please don't hesitate to scrap, as it isn't true graphic art and off base from the original intention of the thread.

I really was just unsure and appreciate your clearing this up.
So it's a photo that has been enhanced,right?

Anyhow I have another Munchen card on the way that I know is painted and I'll post in it's place soon.

Thanks for the info.

Munich card.
Marked on back:
Munchener Kunstlerkarte. No8.
Profeffer P(?).F. Messerschmitt
"Deutsche hiebe"

Both postmarks are faded and hard to read and the correspondence is minus a date so I'm not too sure on the year.

Bill,
I agree with Dean, nice post card, it would be nice to find the actual bronze statue, the detail is really something. Thanks for showing that one Bill.

Dean,
I truly love anything with a battle scene either on land or sea it doesn't matter, but on horseback even better. I have a few litho's of French sea battles which I enjoy and a battle scene on horseback in oil. I'm sorry I said earlier that I didn't have anything to post because I went digging and actually found a few but I think only one fits this topic and it's a battle scene as well. Thanks.

Quite the action scene you got there Mikee.
My favorite part is those horses in the background jumping into the crowded battle feild with their rider's swords drawn.
I guess the dude getting shot point blank in the gut while he tries to smash his opponents head with his rifle really stands out too.
Your art makes me think how much warfare has evolved in 100 years.

Dean,

Those two Bavarian lions aren't going anywhere ...

I've never seen one of those grenadier bronzes other than the one on the postcard, love one for my desk, too.

The two slashing horsemen is a fabulous illustration, something right out of N.C. Wyeth's bold and colorful style. The two animals are great studies, there's actual fear and excitement conveyed in those eyes - it doesn't get much better than that.

If you check the title again, I believe you'll read, "Deutsche Heide," or "German Heath."

Mikee, do you remember those collector cards from way back in the 60's, on the American Civil War? They were only out for a very short while, maybe because they were very bloody and graphic in nature? heh ... maybe parents got freaked out and made a fuss? Anyway, this illustration reminds me of those, tons of action. "The capture of the first French battle flag .."

Great stuff gents, thanks!

W~

Thanks for giving me a heads up on this great thread Bill! Dean, that's a nice shot of the FHH and one that I've never seen before. What is the bronze monument that you mentioned? The Mahnmal to the Putsch fallen?

Hi Erich,
Thanks for the compliment on the postcard.
The bronze I was refering wasn't pertaining to the FHH but it's on the Heinrich Wadere card pictured on Bill's May 1st post.

Got it, thanks. The artwork of these cards are second to none. Great collections all!

Happy to have this one to relate it to a 1923-36 Niederoesterreich posie album I've been looking into.

Seller stated card was circa 1910 but unfortunately no postmarks or correspondence.

Any takes,interpretations,or knowledge in general of the picture or what was going on in that area during these times is appreciated.

Thanks.

Dean,

In a nutshell, I believe the "Bund der Deutschen in Nieder�sterreich" card depicts the fight of the German School Association, Deutscher Schulverein (DSchV) and was the name of a so-called "protection-league" for Germans, in all the Habsburg king's lands throughtout the greater Austrian Empire. Their battle was to protect and preserve the German language, culture, history and traditions within the sphere of German-speaking, territorial educational systems.

Their catchword was -

"And it will be by the German Spirit
that the world shall be healed ... "

The card could have been printed slightly after 1880 and into the First World War, I'd assume?

Amazing to see the heroic-looking characters they chose to represent themselves and their individual plights, heh ... one gets the feel of old Teutonic warriors, and then eventually on into the twenties, they came to be represented by the brown-shirted SA warriors.

Best!

B~

Gents,

No explanation needed here, just some good clean fun!

Painted by Heinrich Schlitt, the famous Mettlach master-artist.

Then, something quite a bit darker ... dated August 4th, 1914 - "Parliament of War Unanimous to Conscript Five Millions.." come take your medicine, boys! A terrible waste of souls, however, nice eagle ...

Bill

2/2

Nice WWII.
I love these painted cards the farther out there the better IMO.
Beautifully done and looks like it would have worked very well in our hippy era all those years later.

The 2nd card is great also.
Nothing beats the patriotic look of a well done eagle clutching a sword.One of the better eagles I have seen in a while.
What a great propaganda symbol.
Any clue on who the artist was on it?I can't see a signature or any initials.

On the subject of far out cards, this is my contribution.Check out Satan's feet.Is this textbook?
Is Germany's Brocken kind of the equivalent to the USA's Salem?
Back of card has a witch type symbol and marked Brocken Hotel.

Dean,

Not sure who's responsible for the nice eagle -
I wouldn't mind having one carved like that, or cast in bronze ...

It's been a while since I read Goethe's "Faust,"
but that was the first time I ever heard of Walpurgisnacht. I do remember that some of the demons and spectres that were shown to Faust by the devil were especially frightening...

In Germany, Walpurgisnacht, the night from April 30 to May 1, is the night when witches are reputed to hold a large celebration on the Blocksberg and await the arrival of spring.

Walpurgis Night (in German folklore) the night of April 30 (May Day's eve), "when witches meet on the Brocken mountain and hold revels with their gods..."

Brocken is the highest of the Harz Mountains of north central Germany. It is noted for the phenomenon of the Brocken spectre and for witches' revels which reputedly took place there on Walpurgis night.

The Brocken Spectre is a magnified shadow of an observer, typically surrounded by rainbow-like bands, thrown onto a bank of cloud in high mountain areas when the sun is low. The phenomenon was first reported on the Brocken.

A scene in Goethe's Faust Part One is called "Walpurgisnacht", and one in Faust Part Two is called "Classical Walpurgisnacht". The last chapter of book five in Thomas Mann's The Magic Mountain is also called "Walpurgisnacht".

In some parts of northern coastal regions of Germany, the custom of lighting huge fires is still kept alive to celebrate the coming of May, while most parts of Germany have a derived Christianized custom around Easter called "Easter fires".

In rural parts of southern Germany, it is part of popular youth culture to play pranks such as tampering with neighbours' gardens, hiding possessions, or spraying graffiti on private property. These pranks occasionally result in serious damage to property or bodily injury.

In Berlin, traditional leftist May Day riots usually start at Walpurgis Night in the Mauerpark in Prenzlauer Berg. There is a similar tradition in the Schanzenviertel district of Hamburg, though in both cases, the situation has significantly calmed down in the past few years.

Adolf Hitler, with several members of his staff (including Joseph Goebbels), committed suicide on Walpurgisnacht, April 30 � May 1, 1945.

Another feather in your cap Dean, a great cultural, history lesson - sweet!

W~

Bill,
Really enjoy the Dwarfs with such brilliant color. Thanks for showing them,I think I saw a book with a lot of these in it.

Dean,
Just an addition to what Bill has mentioned. That is a earlier picture of the Brocken transmitter and hotel which is located at the summit of the Brocken also known as the Blocksberg. Has some very interesting history in itself and was used by the Stasi to spy on West Germany's communications. Believe me, witches night is great fun celebrated every year there. Pagan religion and rituals which christianity tried to stamp out with St. Walpurgis feast day celebrated on 1 May hence the association. Very interesting history indeed. Witches dancing around fires with the devil while he chooses the best looking witches for unholy marriage (making whoopy) in exchange for powers is all part of this pagan folklore as seen on your postcard. This must be the reason for the term" lucky devil". My kids love Bibi Blocksberg, Hex Hex.

Another great looking gnome Bill.
Looks fun and a bit on the scary side too.Like you hope he's freindly and not givin you the stink eye.
The way the artist used the colors for the bubbles and his imagination to create this type of idea is impressive.
Are these illustrations from a fairy tales type book.If so I don't understand how any of the children brought up with these bedtime stories slept a wink.

Thanks for the info on the Brocken card guys.
Kind of erie how the date is around Hitler's suicide and makes you think twice about occultism in Hitler's Reich.
Seems to me there are many coincidences like this in dates and events concerning this subject to the point where it's hard to shrug it off as just chance.

Just one more case and point is the famous Von Stuck painting Die Wilde Jagd done in the year of Hitler's birth by one of his favorite artist and bearing a striking resemblance to a future Geman leader before there was any cocept of what Hitler would look like as an adult.
Crazy stuff for sure.

Picture borrowed from the www.

Mikee,

Can't thank you enough for always adding your insight and knowledge to so many of these excellent posts by Dean - gracias amigo!

Dean - No doubt about it, there's a feeling of mysticism going on there, this graphic looks like something right out of Faust's demonic visions.

I wonder if Hitler ever noticed this likeness of himself in the painting? It does bear a striking resemblance to the old boy.

I hope some day you'll find an original piece of artwork for one of your cards, that would make for some incredible display!

Best regards!

Bill

quote:

Originally posted by WWII:
I wonder if Hitler ever noticed this likeness of himself in the painting? It does bear a striking resemblance to the old boy.
Bill

Intresting question, wish I knew the answer.
Amazing how there are so many unanswered questions to an era where there are still living witnesses.

I was wondering if there are any comments for this card that I just got in the mail.
Looks like the artist signed the bottom left corner but it's tough to make out.

Just thought it looked pretty cool and would like to learn more about it if possible.

Thanks

Dean,

A patriotic poem titled, "Be Proud." That's about all my old peepers could make out ..

I'm not 100% certain, could that be a tired-looking Germania holding the sword? Maybe the text will give us a clue? I'm very curious about the bizarre faces in the background ... a strange crew. Possibly the world-stage?

Great design on that shield.

Best!

Bill

I was thinking maybe Germania also but that type of helmet and dark black hair was throwing it off.
Good guess on the faces coming out of the fire and smoke representing the world stage.

I thought the sheild and big sword with the chiseled arm holding it were well done.
Thanks for your input Bill.

One more card to show that is dated 12/22/07.
Check out this guys persuader stick.

Any guesses on if the lion is part of a real monument or was it something the artist made up?

...here a war bond drive card out of my collection and a card wirh a machine gunner crew in a specific graphic style, a little bit "Art deco"?

Kolibri

..here are the gunners...

The artist did one heck of a job on this soldier' eyes in picture #1.Nice

A 1920's 7x5 exlibris described as being on handmade paper (???).
I thought it seemed to have some type of message conveyed going with it although I'm not exactly sure what that is yet.
Just the look on the young and old ladies faces impressed me in addition to what I feel is good art.

A search result came up for a artist Karl Ritter (not sure it's the one who did this) born in Wurzburg Germany and served as a WWI pilot who later became a NSDAP member and also worked in the German film industry.

Any thoughts,opinions, or interpretations regarding it's meaning (if there is one) are welcome.

Thanks

Close up- Beethoven???

Dean,

Another fine, colorful graphic image - love that "meat-tenderizer" the fellow is carrying. Yes, I believe that's the correct Bavarian lion depicted in the painting, though, there are many different variations that would also be considered correct state emblems. Der Deutsche Schulverein S�dmark was another organization that promoted the German language and culture throughout the Austro-Hungarian Empire starting around 1880. This must have been an important issue during the years before the First World War and it seems this would be related to the card you posted earlier at the top of this page, "Bund der Deutschen in Nieder�sterreich."

Kolibri,

Thanks for adding the cards from your collection, both are very good examples from the "Kaiserzeit."

I especially like the first rendering of the German front-soldier, it's quite a striking image that illustrates this war-bond messege, "Help us to Victory..."

This is a very well executed drawing. The bold flat-colors really bring this man to life - the details to his battle-kit and the shadow-areas under the helmet are very natural and realistic. The highlights in his eyes and his stare tell the story ... "it's them or us..." The way the soldier is framed by wood and barbed-wire is quite clever and the splinter-effect of the border seems to further carry that feeling of sharp wire, too.

Thanks to both of you for the good graphics ...

Best!

Bill

Ps Dean just saw your latest post, sorry for falling behind but I've been swamped over here ... getting ready to visit my mates in Germany and several million other things ...

Have a great time on your trip Bill and no need for thinking your behind.The pictures will be here when you have some extra leisure time.

Dean,

Thanks!

I think many times bookplates relate and reflact the owner's private tastes and interests, no? That could definitely be Herr Beethoven up there in the clouds but I can't figure out what the old woman is giving/receiving from the younger woman?

Here's a very nice French, anti-Kaiser image having poor-old Kaiser Billy portrayed as a stag-beetle specimen pinned with a French-model bayonet. Superb propaganda, mon dieu!

Best!

B~

Another nice one by Schlitt.

Best!

B~

Crazy Schlitt card Bill.
I like the way the artist paid extra attention to the background details.This guy had quite an imagination.
Thanks for keeping this thread going.

Here's some art that has this printed on back:
Verlag des Verreines Sudmark
(Gegrundet 1889) Graz Joanneum=Ring 11

On the front bottom is
Hars(?)Kaufmann. Ruhpoudirg.

I thought it was a nice naturalism card.
Looks to me like she has a crow for a pet.

Lots of great images in this thread.

I decided to move the post I made originally to the Imperial Allach thread, since this therad is more about two-dimensional art than sculpture.

T.

22/8/30 postcard

Do photo's still have to be resized?Says file is too large.

Card is on some type of artist grade stock.Dated 16/2/18

Back of card has sweet script.Artwork in my eyes.

Dean,

I'm simply amazed at how you continually "outdo" yourself with each new addition to the thread! It's a sophisticated illustrated history of the German people, (geschichte) portrayed by some of the best illustrators that the country had to offer. Wars, battles, literature and poetry, political movements and timely issues, all brought to life through artistic interpretation - brilliant! There are just so many details to be gleaned from each card, some themes easily recognizable while others are ripe with subtle nuance and cultural symbolism.

You know, we're quite lucky to see some of the fine collections that our friends share here in the forums, like this one. Rare medals, uniforms, beautiful edged weapons,
deluxe firearms, fine art and still further ... not too long ago it'd take a lifetime of trooping off to gunshows and auctions to see this many good, solid collectibles that we regularly get to enjoy right here, courtesy of our unselfish mates who continually add to our knowledge and personal enjoyment.

A sincere thanks to all those in our ranks who regularly contribute, thereby constantly adding new aspects to the many fascinating areas of collecting in this great hobby.

Best regards,

Bill Warda

I'm unsure if this 1917 posted card is even German or really what it's about.
Being that the adress was to Berchtesgaden and the writing appeared to be German I thought it was intresting.I thought the wolf like dog,flames,and the crest were cool too.
Also any idea on why it is stamped on back in english K.k.Alpines Detatchement No.4?
Thanks for any help.

Back of card

1917 Stuttgart postmarked card.

Dean,

The first card is definitely German, another "solstice" example. The "K.u.k." stands for, Kaiserliches und K�nigliches, as in - belonging to the Kaiser and king. In this case the Alpine detatchment.

Your second card is something a bit special and difficult to find by my experience. Storm-batallions were the elite warriors of that time period, men like Sepp Dietrich.
Finding original Sturm collectibles can be tough at best and this one's a dandy. Terrific, bold images in first-class condition - nice!

Best!

B~

What a privledge to have the benefit of your knowledge and expertise Bill.
Many thanks for such an enjoyable thread and the continuing education in German history.Great stuff.

1909 card.Odin???

I've been seeing lightning more and more in German art.Any insights what it's about if anything?
Thanks

One of my favorites.
Leipzig 1914 postmark.

Dean,

Your nice comments are much too kind, I do enjoy sharing my limited knowledge with those who have an interest in our fine hobby. On the other hand, without you sharing your great images with us, I'd have nothing to add.

Our old friend and chief Nordic-god, Odin/Wotan is back with us in this illustration, a fine representation for the Bundes der Germanen, or Society of (old) Germans. I'd surmise these clubs or fraternities were responsible for keeping the old traditions and customs alive, much like those folks who are involved with the Renaissance clubs and fairs we have in the States today.

You mentioned that you're seeing lightning depictions in more of your artwork and wondered about the meaning? I'll try to put us on track with a few definitions of lightning used in art ... spiritual illumination; enlightenment; revelation; the descent of power; sudden realization of truth cutting across time and space; the Eternal Now; the destruction of ignorance; nutrition; the masculine power. These interpretations will make it easier to see why this celestial power is associated with Wotan's strength and knowledge.

I'm not sure if the wolves are meant to represent Fenrir the wolf, son of Loki? (Geri and Freki?) ... but I'm pretty sure the crow/raven figures are meant to portray Huginn & Muninn. (also spelled Hugin and Munin) A super illustration of the old German hunter/warrior. Wish I could interpret the runic inscription for you but that's way beyond me.

The second card looks to be either a pencil or charcoal rendering from here, illustrating one of the three virtues, charity, caring for an exhausted soldier. Charity or love being the strongest and most dominant of the virtues, outweighing faith and hope. An unlimited loving-kindness toward all others, not to be confused with the benevolent giving of material wealth.

The artist's skills are self-evident in his anatomy, perspective and composition of the two figures. It's nice the way the drawing captures not only the warm, physical embrace
of Charity's arms, but also the double-envelopment of her warm, caressing cape - well done. The old boy looks to be nearly at the end of his rope, utterly exhausted, hungry
and totally devoid of fighting spirit ... to be reborn in the arms of this lovely maiden. And maybe, just maybe, she'll have coffee, cigarettes and doughnuts, too? heh .. what more could a tired warrior ask for ..??

Best regards and thanks!

Bill

Great art interpretations WWII.Thanks for the well said, thought provoking descriptions.
It's always intresting to see the differences in my interpretion's before and after the facts.

Here's a few more.

A 6-30-1916 card that I liked because of the skill the artist put into the mythical,eerie setting with colors and look of these trees.
Also I didn't see the blood on the tip of the spear until it was photographed and enlarged.Cool.

Card #2 is dated 7-16-1915 with a feildpost.
At first I thought it was another Wotan example but saw no mention anywhere in the text.I'm wondering if anyone might know anything about it.
Thanks

Close up of text

A Wotan card with cool serpant and sword border.

Munich card that had artist name on back.
The second image is by the same artist and was borrowed off the web.

On the back is Barbarossas Sieg bei Ikonlum.-Julius Brumby Verlag, Goslar.

A 1913 card mailed to Dresden.
I thought the Medusa (??) was a nice touch.

Munich card: Das Schwert

More Bund der Deutschen in Niederosterreich art.

Awesome 1923 card.I thought the space efficent and neat writing added to it's beauty.JMO

1909

1914

Dean,

I apologize for my seeming lack of attention, I've been terribly busy as of late and have lots of catching-up to do ...

Glad to see that you've been busy posting these great new graphics, simply put,
they're extraordinary! Powerful, thought-provoking images in a wide variety of mediums and the penned-word ... a formidable combination. I find myself going back again and again to look at the fine details in this last series. Very nice, and many thanks.

Best!

Bill

Thanks for the compliments on the art Bill and no problem.
I know you were on vacation and I was posting to keep this great thread (imo) going and maybe generate some intrest or other post.
Hope you'll be back on track soon and look forward to your knoledge and thinking.

1903 Frankfurt

Dean,

Had to go back and review the previous page again, really great
stuff worked out here! Some are in the illustrative styles of Howard Pyle and N.C. Wyeth, but with heavy European influence and overtones.

If I had to choose just one of those images as being most dramatic or influential to me, it would have to be the engaving/pen & ink of the arms cleaning the sword. I found myself really "sucked into" that powerhouse! No words needed to further enhance the message ...

Your latest theme, Amazone, is a favorite of mine. A fabulous giant race of women warriors, said to have come from the Baltic coast, North Africa and/or the Amazon jungle regions.
Anyway you slice it these ladies would make short-work of us, fellas, heh ...

There are so many images of these warriors that have been rendered through the ages, many of them beyond compare. I've seen your image Dean, done in variety of sculpted materials, with the big-cat biting the piss out of the poor horse! Then there are those with just the woman and the horse, with and without spear, and there are some great ones in that category, too. There are literally countless other variations on this interesting theme.

One thing I'd say about any of the variations is that for me it should be full of life and energy - power if you will. Somehow the strength of both the warrior and her animal should be conveyed to the viewer, naturally, if that's the version one's looking at.

My addition is of noted sculptor Theodor Kaerner's interpretation. In this variation the fury is wielding a tidy short-sword in her right hand, though, not in this photo. My point being that any of the impressions should be refreshing to look at from almost any angle.

Another first-class card good sir, many thanks.

Best!

Bill

That Amazon card's gold accents around the subject matter, and not just the border, seemed to resemble the way many ceramic pieces are detailed and I thought it was a little out of the ordiary seeing a card done like this.

Somehow I knew you might have a porcelain item in this Amazon theme Bill and that one looks to be amazing.Wasn't Hitler a fan of this race?

I have a question on the 1914 Bund der Deutschen Nordmahrens card posted on 8/16.
Does anyone know what the skull is all about or what is the other symbol to the left of it.

Thanks for any input.

1911 postal cancellation.
Anyone know if it says anything intresting?Thanks.

Card's art was done by the same artist that was posted on 8/3 @ 10:41 and I considered myself lucky to stumble across it.
A super talented artist (IMO). His art, with very detailed backgrounds, reminds me a lot of Bernie Wrightson's amazing drawings.

Check out the gothic creatures above the arched window and the gargoyle head appearing in the window to the left.
Also the artist initals appear almost hidden under the chair as well as a mouse.What talent.

Wondering what the ropes are for though.

Wein Card

1916 Field posted card.

Saint Michael and Reich eagles about to do work.

Dean,

Simply outstanding!

B~

Thanks Bill.
Heres a 1902 card with a decent looking Germania.

Dean,

Can you tell us what initially led you to collect Imperial postcards? Do you specialize in any other fields in our hobby, too? Would you have some tips or insights for those who might be interested in collecting late 19th - early 20th century German graphic arts?

Many thanks for continuing to share your wonderful cards with us.

B~

Dean,

Thanks for keeping this thread alive with your fine collection of cards,it's a real pleasure. Thank you.

Mikee,Bill-
The pleasure is mine with your appreciation,points of view,and facts that you've been offering along the way.

Bill,I'd say Robert Noss got me going with some kind advice he was willing to share on 3rd reich postcards and with your thread being available I'm able to enjoy learning something about the history that pre-dated that era.
I don't specialize in Imperial cards or anything else so I don't think I'm qualified to offer advice.Just a Bozo who loves Germany and art is all.

I think this card is post Imperial times but after viewing Bill's cool Schlitt cards thought he might find it appealing because of the gnome factor.

Wein postcard.

The more I looked at the light breaking through the sky the more it resembled the silohouette of a eagle. Am I way off?

I tried to translate it on the comp but it didn't make a lot of sense and nothing about this notion or a eagle.

That aside I'm thinking the thorny border kept with the bondage theme well and I love how such a small, subtle red dot detail in the eyes of the hungry jackals stands out in a big way.Cool imo.

Dean,

Robert is someone whose advice I'd readily take, too. Years ago
my father and I got to spend a few hours with Herr Noss and found him to be straight forward, honest and very knowledgeable. He's been building a most incredible collection of images for years now - a very decent chap and a credit to the hobby.

Some scary little figures in the foreground of the Austrian/German card; I can make out a dragon or Lindwurm,
the elf and some evil-looking roots ... reminds me of Lord of the Rings.

No, nothing on eagles, instead a ray of hope from the heavens
that just might free Germania from the bonds of martyrdom.

Best!

Bill

Thanks for the input on the cards WWII.
You mentioned you and your father met Robert.Is your dad also into collecting?Seems like that would be fun and quite a blessing.Talk about sharing quality time right.

Dean,

I was lucky enough to have a father who was quite knowledgeable in German military history, as well as music and the fine arts. We spent many pleasurable hours together attending military shows, events and social gatherings over the years and made many friends and acquaintences.

My dad served with the German Heer during the war in the 23rd Infantry Division, on the Russian front near Leningrad. After that it was five years of hard labor in Russian captivity near Moscow.

As a kid I had an avid interest in the "German aspects" of the Second World War and became totally fascinated with the subject. Pop fueled my interests by providing me with plenty of reading material related to the war; biographies, politics, battles and most importantly, his own firsthand accounts of his experiences.

I had an excellent teacher and companion who taught me many valuable life-lessons and both sides to our German heritage, the good and the ugly ...

Bill

A couple more postcard pickups ... good old D�brich-Steglitz loves the cavalry. This picture, being a cavalry visor collector, I love. Check the saddle on the officer with the "Jersey Shore" popped collar Great picture, glad I got it!

And a second I picked up recently, for the 16th Dragoons.

Gents,

It looks like Lucas loves the cavalry, too ... nice!

A few more neat old cards, please enjoy.

Best!

Bill

2/3

3/3

Dean, I have always loved this particular statue. So very dynamic and powerful. You can't help but circle around it, because there's some new and exciting thing to see at every angle. I've was fortunate to acquire a nice ca. 1900's spelter metal casting of the piece earlier this year, but would love to have it in bronze someday.



In the meantime, I am loving this thread. Lots of gorgeous and visually stunning pieces. I think it's such a shame that this calibre of graphic design is seldom uesd today - cast aside in favor of streamlined, soulless geometric shapes and flat colors. Alas.

Thanks for keeping the artistic spirit alive, gents!

T.

Good stuff guys,nice seeing your art.
Here's a few more starting with another work by Jung on artist grade stock.
What a great artist imo.
Any thoughts what the skulls with roots are about?Maybe a ashes to ashes kind of theme??

Munich Postcard.
Check out this guys rock crushing fist.I think the artist did a good job making a statement with this detail.

Tiberius,

A fine partner to Dean's Amazon postcard, nice to see the transition from two to three dimensions. Any markings or signature to identify the piece? This sculpture should make for an excellent centerpiece to your equine collection.

Dean,

"Neues Jahr, ein Neues Hoffen," in other words, "New Year, (brings) a new hope."

My take is that even death brings succor and nourishment to new life, hence, the wheat shafts growing fine and strong from the pair of skulls. Life's cycle complete, the New Year bringing with it renewed hope for a better life and world in general.

The next card was the third place winner of an art contest for posters - war bond/insurance and such for the Austrian "Phoenix" organization. No doubt the illustration was meant to convey the message of protection for the families of military personel. The soldier nicely portrays a powerful feeling of superior strength and determination.

Many thanks for these fine additions gents!

Bill

Thank you for the info/input on the latest post Bill.

Got this 1909 Munchen card that was posted in Dresden and titled Eva.Thought it was a pretty amazing job.

Field posted Munich card dated 10-9-1915.
Reminded me of Breker's Art in Hitler's New Reich Chancellery.

Dean,

Enemies roundabout !


Nice ...

B~

Gents,

Thought you might like this pair ...

A more or less intricate hunting motif theme with a falconer and his birds, and a nice, strong b+w bookplate, most likely an engraving of some type - woodcut, intaglio? Steady hands and good control on those lovely vertical cuts. - enjoy.

Best!

B~

2/2

Really nice stuff Bill. Thanks

Bill,

That falconer post card I really enjoy! Thanks for showing it!

1916 Feldpost d.25. Inf.Div. Munich card sent to Sondershausen.

Silhouette card with a bonus picture on back.Sorry about the photo quality.

Maestro Dean,

Two more complements to your fine collection - the German national eagle holding sway, dominating the French rooster and a lovely, right-wing silhouette of a 'Siegfried-like' figure, protecting the German way of life and nation.

The first card needs no explanation, the image tells us the entire story as only a true graphic can. Almost anyone with even a modest interest in 19th and 20th century German history should be able to glean at least a thousand words, as the old saying goes ...

I can't make out all of the small type but the larger sayings go something like this;

"Then through sword and plow,
in unison with honor and freedom,
will be the sovereign of the German spirit"

"To live honorably and work with good nature,
can only be achieved by a people (nation) through military readiness
and weapons/arms"

I'd imagine old Joe Goebbels would have been very pleased and happy with work of this quality.

Best!

Bill

Hi mr Perdue,

I just stumbled here, and, Im glad I did, this is all beautiful! I noticed yours as it has skullies in them? Reckon I have a thing for these but, in art? They can mean many things! Mostly its mortality or fear of death, but also the other way round, glad to live? Like carpe diem. But it depends on the culture the artists are from or are telling about in their work. Well I surely don''t know about it all, but Im learning as I go? I very much love national socialist art from interbellum period but also Russia communist socialist art, both very strong very striking. This it not that ofcourse but just saying. May I ask please if this Jung you mention is psychotherapist also? I try to find this artist but no luck?

Sincerely,
KR

Thanks for your nice comments WWII and Krullies.

Regarding the Jung art my guess is that it is the psychotherapist (not 100% sure though and judging by the looks of his other art).
Guess when he was in his 60's Jung had something to do with restructuring the Allgemeine �rztliche Gesellschaft f�r Psychotherapie according to Wikpedia.

I found a few more cards to post.

#1 was posted to M�hlhausen.Inside the backs decorative border is a line- Die treue ist das mark der ehre.

#2 Another one of Rethel's Munich cards posted to Schwerin in 1919.

#3 A 1916 feild posted to Baden kreigsbilder card produced in Leipzig.

Thanks mister Perdue! Fun to look at Jung a bit. He surely was looking at dreams too! Here it explains, that Jung saw art as psychological or visionary. The restructuring mustve been some of the things he did last in life, no?

Supercards, your new ones! These are so beautiful! Awesome crayon drawings and themes, wow, thanks so much for sharing! I surely need to learn more on this!

Bye,
KR

Dean,

Three more nice single-color examples, all are excellent somber-themed choices ...

Frontgeist - Spirit of the Front

Ein feste Burg ist unser Gott - Our God is a strong fortress. (comes from a church song written by Martin Luther before 1529) definitely an oldie but goodie ..

Sei getreu bis in den Tod - Remain loyal until death

Many thanks and best!

Bill

Thought you might like to see this 'in-wear' illustration of a Holbein dagger ..? .. you won't see too many of these around.

Best!

B~

I found this postcard recently and am trying to figure the text out.

There's just something about it that I liked.

Maybe the fact the flag is small and not over done, added to and didn't take away emphasis of the proud patriotic look of the warrior and his sweet ride.

Wow, William, that IS a lovely card! Very powerful drawing, he realy stands there, blowing the huntinghorn! Almost like a comicbookcharacter .. very nice! And the Holbein, awesome!

Hi Dean!

Surely a beautiful card! The styled horse and rider, SO pretty! The shot at shield, but the horseman and his horse still riding strong, proud! Gorgeous. Do you know who G.K. is maybe?

The text, well, it reads "Heimkehr" on top, the "returning home". And in the box;

"
Wenn tausend einen Mann erschlagen
das ist nicht Sieg, noch Ruhm und Ehr.
Und heissen wirds in sp�tern Tagen:
Gesiegt hat doch das deutsche Heer.
"

This means something like;
When thousand men beat one
its not victory, not glory or honour.
And in later days to come it will still be known/be called:
the german army won no matter what/after all

This is a very lovely card, very obvious and great theme, very rare maybe too? Truly nice, thanks for showing!

Bye,
KR

Thank you Krullies for your translation and input on the art.I appreciate it.

Unfortunately the initials G.K. are unknown to me.

Hi Dean,

I tried to find something for the initials, but, no luck, sorry .. It looks like a woodcut, no? Or a litho? Anyways there are good sites to look at for stuff like this, I like this site, it has many filter options, look for the grey bar, with search filter in it, and click "open", awesome no? Maybe its handy for you too, or intresting to just browse. Anyways, there are so many unknown artists, it could be Georg Kolbe? He also did 3rd Reich things. But the Kolbe style, looks different. Well, maybe someday G. K. will turn up

Bye,
KR

Dean,

Another superb illustration!

Bill

Thanks WWII.

Here's a Salzburg postcard titled Bestimmung.

And a 1916 dated 2.Bayer Feldart. Rgt. field posted card

Dean,

Two more 'heavyweight' cards - "Destiny" and "England's Bad Conscience..."

A dark frightening figure of death juxtaposed with a beautiful, radiant angel. Perhaps to drive home the notion that this was what soldiers had to look forward to, maybe not so bad after all..?

The second card immediately reminds one of the style of the famous American illustrator Edward Gorey. The thin gaunt figure of England dressed in what seems to be undertaker's clothes, holding on to a sack of money (?) whilst standing ankle-deep in a field of blood ... what could possibly be more damning or macabre than that?

What's great about these cards is that they force us to think about the subject matter in one way or another, all via personal interpretation. A little knowledge of early 20th century history and European geo-politics is helpful, lending even more credence and weight to the already powerful images.

Gotta hand it to you Dean, you sure know how to pick 'em !!

Best regards and thanks!

Bill

Thanks Bill for the comments and all your contributions to the forum geared toward art and history.

1913 Bund der Deutchen in Bohmen card.

1915 feildposted Munich postcard sent to Offenbach.

A Salzburg July 1931 postcard that I thought would be a nice item to compliment my Turnfest/art posie album from the same period.Maybe Barbarossa pictured holding the sheild??

A few Deutscher Schule Verein postcards.

Imagining how these school association images would be perceived in todays society is good for a laugh.

Wien field posted card with beatiful script on back.

Card #2 is also from Wien dated 1915 with great script.
I liked the message I thought it sent to its youths that their heritage was important and worth protection.

Dean,

I never get tired of looking at your fine collection of your postcard images, they always make me stop and think, "what was this particular artist trying to tell us here..?" ... and so on. Historic events described in pictures and a modicum of text, delivering bold thoughts and statements that were relevant to important issues of the day. A very good way to study history no matter what country we may be interested in following, no?

Since we haven't translated all the text and artwork listed here, I wonder if that makes this somewhat less interesting to those who don't read the language? If we've missed anything that someone's curious about, just ask and I'll do my best to explain any of Dean's super cards.

Here are a few more that I thought some of our regulars might enjoy ...

Best!

Bill

2/2

Beautiful cards and ex libris Bill.I especially like the last one but there all great.
Whats up with the crosses over the heads of the deer?
Is that something like the reverence hunters had for these animals,maybe similar to the way the american indian held the buffalo sacred and in such high regard?

Very nice art.The colorized ones fit the style of their era perfectly imo.Thanks for adding these to the thread.

Dean,

Legend has it Hubertus, born in the seventh century, seeks comfort and distraction on lonely hunts after the death of his beloved wife during childbirth, Princess Floribana. One Christmas Eve on one of these hunts he encounters the wondrous figure of a splendid albino stag carrying a mysterious, shining cross between its antlers. The marvelous creature speaks to him and explains the rudiments of proper animal conservation and hunting practice. After this vision, Hubert is moved to transform his life. He abandons his high ranks of office and distributes his wealth among the poor and the church.

St. Hubertus has been the patron saint of hunters and animal-protectionist organizations (Tierschutzvereine) in northern Europe, who honor him by sharing their feasts with local towns people, hold charity fund-raising festivals and events and are responsible for the care of animals on their collective lands, both domestic and wild.

When a buck was hunted and killed, hunters through the ages have placed a small sprig of evergreen, or if none is available, oak, in the mouth of the fallen game. This is done as an offering of the 'last bite,' a final tribute to the animal, symbolically giving back to God the soul which we receive from Him.

If food was scarce in the winter, Hubert would go out to the forest to provide sustenance for the animals. He and his valued, loyal hunting dogs often went to the forest not to hunt, but only to be part of and observe the true splendor of nature. Through honoring the forest's creatures, he thereby also honored the creator.

When the National Socialists came to power in 1933, all types of social groups, clubs and old established organizations were all called to order and re-organized under new Nazi laws, called 'gleichschaltung.' This literally means 'getting in step' or, 'everyone on the same page,' under NS umbrella-organizations. So the old hunter's emblem of the St. Hubertus stag's head or in their case skull, became the symbol for the Deutsche J�gerschaft, also known by the initials, "DJ." (German Hunting Organization) Naturally, their familiar corporate-logo of the swastika was used in as many new club logo-designs as possible, hence, the swastika replaced the old Christian cross between the deer's antlers.

Hitler was quite a shrewd operator, I wonder how far in advance he had all these little details figured out?

Hope this might explain the symbol somewhat better and I'm glad you liked the graphics too.

Best!

B~

WWII-
That was extremely informative and interesting.I'm really glad I asked and received that info.Great stuff.

Thanks for the continuing education on these small details that sometimes have significant meaning.


As far as wondering how long Hitler had these ideas or concepts mapped out,thats a excellent question.
My guess/opinion would be it was far before the 3rd Reich even began especially if Kubizek's accounts of their early friendship are believed.

Thanks Dean,

I'm glad to explain things for those who might share our interests, that is, if I sometimes can, heh ...

Here's a great collection of various and rare pins, medallions and awards that all sport a St. Hubertus and/or deer-head motif of some kind. These range in time-frame from the turn-of-the-century until 1945. I think there's only one post-'45 piece in the whole lot and that one's a beauty! - quite amazing. And plenty of very hard to find A.D.J.V. examples, too! These Allgemeine Deutsche Jagdschutz Verein hat-badges are really tough to score. I've been working on mounting these very fine decorations and prizes into a cased display to hang on the wall, for our old amigo, Gary Southgate. Gracias for sharing, good sir!

Hope some of you guys might enjoy these ... they don't come much better.

Best!

Bill

ooops, forgot that one dang moose in there, ha!

W~

Bill, as always, thank you for providing insight into the historic and cultural underpinnings of these beautiful works of art and design. Those stag and deer images are absolutely stunning.

Interesting to note that on the Nazi badges the 'shadow' of the original Cross image is still hinted at in the way the rays of light disperse from behind the swastika.

T.

Mr. T,

My pleasure, to be sure! Hope you're well and ready for a good holiday? Anything new for the porcelain thread?
Hope so ...

Best!

B~

Those badges rank as some of my favourites, I have a prime spot picked out for this display, thanks for the peak Bill.

SfK

"Mr. T", Hah! Alas, I fear I am nowhere near as brawny as B. A. Baracus from the A-Team.

No set plans for the weekend yet - though a barbecue at my cousin's place is likely.

I haven't really purchased anything recently that would be in the spirit of the Imperial Allach thread. I have acquired a few new equines, but they're not of the appropriate time period, style, and/or country of origin to merit posting here.

What of your own porcelain purchasing, Mr. W? Anything new for you lately?

T.

Tiberius,

Other than the Meissen colt and some WHW pieces for my grandsons it's been fairly quiet. Oh, almost forgot, heh..
a nice Bavarian club badge with a blue/white rosette.

Found this image of a fair-size 'wine stash.' Reminds me of the milk slogan, "... got wine?"

Best!

B~

Bill,

Their's a very good story related to this. That's an actual place, been there many many times! Brings back some very nice memories! Thanks!

Hamburg card posted in 1912.

I like the way a lot of these peace time (I think) cards have a military/national might theme going.
So cool how political correctness as it exist today was almost not to be worried about.

The back has a neat looking symbol that I'd like to know about if possible.Thanks

Hey hi Dean,

In old Schwabacher, the letters look like DHV, stands for Deutschnationalen Handlungshilfe Verbandes, see this. Lots about this to say but much is in here. Lovely nationalistic Bismarck quote, supercard!

Bye,
KR

Right on Krullies.Thats their symbol alright.
I would of never figured on the middle letter being a H.
Thank you for your help and the great link.
Interesting for sure.

Karin,

Good detective work! I didn't have a clue as to what this one was ...

Dean, another great illustration, thanks!

Bill

Youre always welcome Dean and William Glad I could help.

Bill, I missed Gary's case of pins back one page. Outstanding.

Dean, strong imagery to the postcard. Very nice.

K, sharp eyes, as always. Here is a link to another example.
http://www.therupturedduck.com/WebPages/Medals/Medals/m508.htm

--dj--Joe

Joe HI!!!! I love your smiley!!! Ahum, anyways, supernice pin that, surely! Did you buy it?? DHV was connected to Gesamtverband deutscher Angestelltengewerkschaften, just like RDGF (Reichsverband Deutscher Guts und Forstbeamten) and that has not so much to do with DHV obvioulsy, but indirectly maybe, and, it has the awesomest pin ever, look!



I saw some DHV things, since this pin was posted here, and, if you wanna dig into this, you can find much nice info here (look at that wicked cover! click while its still up!!) and here (also nicecover!).

I found some pin-types lately, maybe anyone wants to see? None of those are mine, but, here goes;















So, DHV, a Trade Union that represented the social and economic interests of workers. Founded in 1893 in Hamburg, named "Deutscher Handlungsgeh�lfen-Verband" but was renamed to "Deutschnationaler Handlungsgehilfen-Verband", in January 1896. Women and jews were not allowed to join the DHV! One of the goals of DHV was to reduce women's work!! In 1930 DHV had more than 400000 members. And ofcourse, after 1933, Hitler abolished\forbid DHV, and later also NSBO in 1935 and DAF was the only organisation for workers left. Interesting, no?

Bye,
KR

Hello K .

The only DHV example I own has one of those crooked crosses on it.
The Reichsverband Deutscher Guts und Forstbeamten pin you show is a stunner. Very nice looking piece. I'll have to see what I can learn about it.

I enjoyed seeing the older looking DHV pins also.

Glad you still like smilies.

--dj--Joe

Can't go without! A DHV with swaz, must be rare? Its like this then?



Taken from some auction somewhere, so not mine again. But its getting an interesting subject to look for .. YES the RDGF is totally awesome, if you find out anything, please let us know? I cant find anything anywhere, but the Wolfsangel, makes this very very yummy! Will keep looking, if I find something Ill send it to you, so you can maybe make a new topic? But first, we must find, obviously ..

Bye,
KR

Dean, Karin and Joe,

It's amazing where some of these things will take the serious collector. Talk about one thing leading to another.

K - you really now how to research things. Sincere thanks for constantly sharing your wonderful finds with us!

Joe - Yes, there are some really fine pieces in Gary's case.
Should I pop that photo into your forum somewhere for discussion? I'm sure many will never see them in this thread ...

Thanks to all of you and best regards!

W~

Yes sir, pop away.

--dj--Joe

Please yes William, theres also one little one triangle, with a Wolfsangel in there, can you also show that more close maybe? Please??

This one never showed up and seems to be lost in the mail.
A lot of problems with lost mail lately due to uncaring carriers but what can you do?
Get your money back.. maybe, but that doesn't fix the problem or get the item back.Sucks.

Posted in August 1916, Saarbr�cken card with a few paragraphs of small german text printed on back describing the characters and situation.

The flaming ball(??) has lettering under it that looks like (SEPAJEW)??
Google translate didn't help or I'm way off on the lettering.

Also, the document being held reads Dreibund Vertag.

Evil and snakes pouring out from the smoke of the burning city but looks like St. Micheal is there to clean up the mess and maybe Bismark too.

Wild but not at all surprising how most governments use religion for their agendas.

Hi Dean!! BRILIANT!! Dreibund Vertrag, was the pact between the German empire, Austria that then included ungary too, and kingdom of Italy. It was sealed in 1882. Actauly, Italy joined a Zweibund, "pact of 2", of Germany and Austria, that was sealed in 1879. The pact was a defensepact between the countries. The french agresiveness and french warmaking made this very needed for the 3 countries. So yes Bismarck surely is there!! He made the Zweibund and Dreibund. But he was resigned from foreign duties in 1890.

The little text "die Anstifer des ..", means, the instigator of the world war on trial, or, in court, before the judge, to be judged, whatever, where Weltgericht literary means court of the world, or, worldcourt, possibly also judgement day. The ball of fire, above it the archangel Micheal, with a sword, pointed in the direction of the guilty.

The "SERAJEW" or whatever you see? I ~~think!~~ that is something like Sarajevo? Maybe old German or Latin? The murder of Fransz Ferdinand there, they saw as cause for the war! The city you see, must be that.

On the left, you see Austrian kaiser Joseph, German kaiser Wilhelm II, in front of them ofcourse obvious Germania. Right you see Russia zar Alexander, France with the 3-color hat, Marianne, and Italy the king below, also Belgium, Servia. Dark angry clouds over the allieds, for hate, lies, treason .. The letters

Now, Italy, YES, part of Dreibund, but Italy caused the colapseof the pact. Take any historybook and read that Italy was on allied side in the war.

Anyhow, supercard again! Thanks for showing

Bye,
KR

Dean & Karin,

Thanks for posting and thanks for the tiptop explanation!

I'm glad that we have such generous people who continue making contributions to this interesting and ongoing thread.

Three cheers !!!

Bill

D - any luck with the lost card yet?

Thanks and credit goes to you Bill for fostering interest and bringing out the best in everyone through kind comments and great insight.Quite the way to live life imo.

Krullies, I want to thank you for the great contributions you made here. I feel fortunate to have both your and Bill's combined wisdom to help with what I know very little about.

Great people for sure.

Dear Sirs The feelin is mutual .. A pleasure to discuss in here, I love the art\cards! Thanks very much for sharing them.

Friends,

Found the colors and subject-matter interesting on this old postcard - The third large gathering of scientific-naturalists at F�rth, 1913. A great but over-simplified image of the strange batfish, a lovely, gentle saltwater aquarium fish.

Best!

B~

Bill I must agree! on all counts!I have had one at one time and I must say A True Joy to watch in the aquarium,

Very very lovely William, silkscreened maybe? The IRIS still exists, did you know?

Bye,
KR

Karin,

Yes, a good illustration of this handsome little critter. I think a little bit too early for a European silkscreen print.
I'd say it started out as a woodcut or other engraved printing technique to cover those bigger solid areas.

Thanks for the link to the club, if I lived near F�rth I'd probably join! Have you looked up any additional photos of batfish? They look like aquatic aliens and are prone to having heart attacks if things get too hectic in their environment, no kidding ...

Geoff, did you have a juvenile or adult fish? The color patterns on some of them are rather psychedelic. What kind of fish did you keep yours with?

Best!

W~

Hey Bill,My little alien was about 5" from wingtip to wingtip.He lived with me for about 2 years in a 75 gallon show reef tank.with a pair of Mandarin fish a cleaner shrimp and a few Fire fish.Unfortunately I had to sell my tank to help with my fathers Estate.Definately the most laid back fish I ever had.

Hi William,



Yes, youre right, sorry, first silkscreen, in the UK, some 4 years later .. thanks!



I saw a few shots yes, beautiful BIG fish!! I thought, the fish on your card, was a discus? And look, a stamp exists too.

Bye,
KR

Well, this needs correcting .. that pin there, is not RDGF (Reichsverband Deutscher Guts und Forstbeamten), but, it says RDSF!! The RDSF is surely NOT the Reichsverband Deutscher Guts und Forstbeamten, I was way wrong, its something else!! From 1933 to august 1934 known as RDS, or, Reichsverband Deutscher Sportangler e.V. and after august 1934, known as RDSF, the Reichsverband Deutscher Sportfischer e.V..



The Reichsverband, was formed from the Arbeiter-Angler-Bundes Deutschlands (AABD), in 1933, on july 1. The year National Socialism came to power. NSDAP wanted less organisations, they used the AABD to be the only organisation for fischermen. Before 1933, there were more fishermen organisations, like Deutschen Angler Bund and Arbeitsgemeinschaft deutscher Anglerb�nde and many smaller local groups like Fischerbund Noris and Angelsportverein Oberroden.

The RDSF, still exists now as VDSF, Verband Deutscher Sportfischer. And, that still has the Wolfsangel you see in the pin above (quoted) in the logo, see here. This surely must be awesome to collect. The Dritte Reich 1st (RDS) and 2nd form (RDSF) of the pin, both are for sale sometimes. Not cheap, but, surely someone will like those together. Some magazines as well, most expensive but best condition here.



The RDSF was part of the Reichsn�hrstand, an organisation, that wanted equality and co�rdination for agriculture and lifestock. For exemple, a super unportable medal for dairy is here, backside here, very nice. Information in German and some enamel shields you can sometimes find for sale, here. Something on youtube too here.

If you like the subject, you need the book "Faszination Fisch Geschichtliches zum Fisch und seinem Fang", by Heinz Haase, see it here.

Corrected, and Petri Heil,
KR

Dear Karin,

Thanks so much for the clarification and update on the second pattern RDSF pin, your research skills never cease to amaze me!

We hardly get to see items that are related to sport and commercial-fishing during the Third Reich era, I've seen a few here and there, not too many. The coolest fishing-related item I've ever seen was a presentation Hirschf�nger given to a master fisherman, in Gary Southgate's collection.

The Munich Jagd Museum has an incredible exhibit dedicated entirely to the history of fishing in Europe, though, mostly Germany.

Good hunting to all.

Bill

Thought some of you might enjoy this site.
http://www.deutsche-schutzgebiete.de/provinz_brandenburg.htm

--dj--Joe

Joe,

For those who can read German this is a beautiful website, really a wonderful example of a time-line. Good graphics and design all the way round, from the Hoheitsadler wallpaper to the modern reference photos.

Best!

B~

Very nice and very interesting, yes, thanks Joe! Complete with coins and stamps and population figures even advertizing, wicked for use for a Referat

A few images I thought some might enjoy ...

Best!

B~

2/3

3/3

A belated "Happy Halloween" to all our collectors!

A nice 1920 cut of some kind, in keeping with the spirit ...



B~

Thanks Bill for your post.I've been having trouble with delivery of cards lately and here's a few that were ordered but still m.i.a.

Dean,

If I remember correctly you mentioned before that you were having some problems receiving your cards. I hope this gets resolved soon as you always have so much excellent and interesting artwork to share with the forum.

Many thanks for your latest posts and best of luck.

Bill

No problem Bill.Happy Thanksgiving.Here's a Stuttgart postcard that just came in.

Very poignant image.Can someone please elaborate on the events illustrated.

Opfer - a sacrifice, a victim or a casualty. Kriegsopfer is a person/persons killed in a military conflict - soldier or civilian.

The artwork on Dean's illustrated card seems to blend the idea of the fallen war hero and the last act of Wagner's Ring of the Nibelungen. I believe the painting can be likened to the death of Siegfried, as his body was also consumed by flames. This last bit of the play literally brings life and meaning to the image.
　
"Br�nnhilde makes her entrance and takes charge of events (the Immolation Scene). Br�nnhilde issues orders for a huge funeral pyre to be assembled by the river. She takes the Ring and tells the Rhinemaidens to claim it from her ashes, once fire has cleansed it of its curse. Lighting the pyre with a firebrand, she sends Wotan's ravens home with "anxiously longed-for tidings"; they fly off. After an apostrophe to the dead hero, Br�nnhilde mounts her horse Grane and rides into the flames.

The fire flares up, and the hall of the Gibichungs catches fire and collapses. The Rhine overflows its banks, quenching the fire, and the Rhinemaidens swim in to claim the Ring. Hagen tries to stop them but they drag him into the depths and drown him. As they celebrate the return of the Ring and its gold to the river, a red glow is seen in the sky. As the people watch, deeply moved, the interior of Valhalla is finally seen, with gods and heroes visible as described by Waltraute in Act 1. Flames flare up in the Hall of the Gods, hiding it and them from sight completely. As the gods are consumed in the flames, the curtain falls."

The addition of the national eagle standing as a solemn guard brings Wagner's opera up to date, more than likely the years of the First World War.

Basically that's how I see this card from Dean's fine collection. What's great about art is that everyone is entitled to their own interpretation, there usually is ample room for speculation, as we all see things on different levels. The female figure could also very well represent Germania..?

It'd be great to hear any additional ideas and insights into the meaning of this dramatic, melancholy image.

Best!

Bill

Just a little add on to what Bill has stated I believe correctly: IMO from personal experience which isn't stating much! I believe this is the artist's depiction of a war memorial because I've seen so very many German war memorials. The rock base slab I've seen many times, but most often with soldier in full battle uniform, but not necessarily in the rest position with pillow. Not stating it is, but the memorial shown resembles the one in the Teutoburg forest. More often than not I've noticed the use of the German eagle at memorial sites due to what it represents as stated. The style of dress and symbolism ie, Imperial crown at her feet, a symbol of respect, sword pointing forward not backward and Imperial eagles on her gown, kneeling with head bowed in reverence to the fallen with the burning flames of eternal rest. I would have to say she represents Germania at a war memorial IMO.

Mikee,

Yes, on second thought I believe you're correct. That has to be "Germania," bowing to respect the fallen hero. It still reminds me of the Wagner scene, but I think your explanation is much closer to the true meaning.

Always good to hear your thoughts. your insight has been very valuable to us on more than one occasion. Much appreciated amigo.

Thanks and best regards!

Bill

Bill,
Thanks and thanks to Dean for posting more great post cards. I'm glad to help whenever I can. I looked for a picture of the war memorial I saw in the Teutoburg forest with no luck, but maybe I can find it on the internet.

Translations welcome.
1914 card.

1914 Stuttgart card.

Dean that is a lovely card, and the drawing more\less tells about what it says. The girl says "Lieber Schutzengel mein, lass dir meinen Vater empfohlen sein", and what it means, is, she prays, but not for herself, but instead for her dad that fights at the front. "My dear guardian angel, please look after my dad", somethinglike that, is what it tells. Very sweet, but also awful. Its actually a little changed line from a poem that goes like this;

"Lieber Schutzengel mein, lass mich dir empfohlen sein.
In allen N�ten stehe mir bei, und halte mich von B�sem frei.
In dieser Nacht, so bitte ich dich,
besch�tze und bewahre mich."

Bye,
KR

Krullies:

Nice to see you here again.. we missed you.

John

What a pleasant surprise! Two of Dean's nice new cards, and a visit from our old friend KR, along with superb translation of the first graphic. Now that's an excellent Christmas present, good to see everyone here. I trust you're all doing well and getting ready for the manic holiday season?

My small contribution is for the second card, something like this:

To Germany's honor & security,
Safeguard woman, child & multitude,
Germanic sword, Germanic fist,
Shall resound upon our enemy's skulls!

Naturally, the German version rhymes and has a much better ring to it, but this'll get us into 'shooting-range...' Man, that's a lovely bit of artwork.

To old friends then, cheers!

Bill

Dean,

You sure can find them! Very nice! I really enjoy symbolism. Could you post a closeup of the snakes head. Thanks.

KR,

Yes in deed, a real pleasure seeing you post again, welcome back!

Thank you so much William, John, Mikee ..

Mikee, I think the snake wears a traditional french hat. The snake, is evil, is France. A hat like this?

Thank you for the responses,translations, and interpretations everyone.
It's so kind of you to take your time and smarts to help in the understanding of these art forms and pieces of German history.
I wish all of you have a great holiday season.

Hey KR,

Exactly what I thought as well. French Phrygian cap, on the head of a snake with a forked tongue representing France,in effect demonizing them. The little girl praying to god for her father. In other words, we are a praying, compassionate, loving people, God is on our side, sympathize with this little girl and our cause, look what the french have done. etc.etc.etc. Psychological warfare.

Most of us in the USA and France know this cap as the Liberty cap or in French, (bonnet de la Libert�) or red cap (bonnet rouge). Which of course we all know is the symbol of liberty and freedom. On the other hand being a military minded individual, if this snake were on a military patch, this would be way cool. I would add fangs squirting venom though. Interesting how symbols can be manipulated for the desired effect. Thank you.

A 1912 postcard addressed to a doctor.

Input on what 'Deutsche Landsmannschaft' means pertaining to this card is welcome ?

Dean,

At the top of the first card, 'Kriegsblinden,' could you spell out the small type at the top, please?

B~

Dean,

Very nice historical post cards!

I can understand why it was given to a doctor. "Den Kriegsblinden" refers to what is now known as Bund der Kriegsblinden Deutschlands BKD or Association of War Blind Germany which is now a unified organization, that was founded to take care of soldiers blinded in war or military service and their survivors and they provide that assistance in many ways, as you can imagine. As well as those blinded due to occupational accidents and violence. The transition is depicted in this post card.

The next post card. The Deutsche landsmannschaft "DL" or German Homeland Association which changed it's name in 1908 from Coburger LC was an organization of country teams or university student associations/fraternities. A lot of changes, reorganization and history here. The structure in the background of your post card is that of Coburg castle and since 1873 and even till today have held their annual meetings in Coburg. Honor, friendship and fatherland is the motto.

Thanks.

Thanks for the good info on the cards Mikee.
Interesting to hear one has a relation to the Coburg castle,something that I would of overlooked for sure.

Bill, the small lettering for the kriegsblinden card looks to be:
Durch das gewulke bright sein light. Buch Hiob 3F V.11.

I liked this image because of the nouveau look to it and the blind knight-like victim with a look of disgust on his face as he clutches a crucifix as though it were a massive sword as his sheild lies behind him hanging on a tree.
What the instrument on his back is all about I have no idea.

There seems to be some crazy looking script on the back with some figures and judging by the illegibility of it, I wouldn't be surprised if it written by another doctor.

Also a mystery to me is the correspondence and postmark are in the year of 1912 but under the image there is what looks to be 4 names with dates of 1914/15.

Thanks

Durch das gewulke bright sein light. Buch Hiob 3F V.11. "Through the cloud his light shines" or something close which is a verse from the Buch Hiob or the book of Job. As we know Job was a man of patients and perseverance even through all his suffering and the book of Job often asked the question why does the righteous suffer and in the end Job was restored back to health. An inspiration for anyone suffering from an affliction.

The shield an instrument of war I see it's meaning as, he must put his life as a warrior behind him and pickup, learn a new skill, a new way of life which is the instrument of learning, a German lute and embrace no longer the sword of war but the sword of faith to help him get through his tribulation.

1914/15 could be war blind casualties from WWI.

Thanks

Dean,

Mikee's given a first class explanation covering the two cards, you don't get much better than that!

The only small things I can add about the 'war-blind' card are that the instrument the knight is carrying looks to me like a lute or mandola, and the top of the card reads,
"Through the clouds His light is brought ... Book of Job, chapter 37, verse 11." My thought about the names and dates not corresponding are that the card was available for autographs of visiting dignitaries at a later date..? I only recognize one of the signatures, that of August Wilhelm. Maybe he visited someplace where the card owner was at at that later date? Leastways, something to think about.

Many thanks for the great additions and excellent input gents.

Best!

Bill

Thanks for your thoughts on card's signatures WWII.
Heres a card I thought was unusual.Comments on meaning welcome.Thanks

Walkure card.

Interpretations welcome for this Andreas Hoferbund fur Tirol card.
Looks like the date next to artist signature is 1918.

1915 postcard addressed to Bohmen Germany.

Maestro Dean,

A good way to start off the New Year!

"The war's wild fury escorted in battle with the strength of German youth, prepares victory for the Fatherland." I'd say that monstrous animal represents 'war's wild fury.'
Beautiful intaglio work, especially the way the torch flames neatly transition into smoke ...

A beautiful Valkyrie watches an epic struggle from the back of her colossal war horse as Wotan's ravens observe and memorize from above.

This next card is incredibly powerful, so simple, yet deeply profound. The end ... fini, kaput ... what's to come now..? All of Germany's might and power bested in combat, the hero and his mighty war eagle console each other in final and utter defeat. Mortally wounded in mind, heart and soul ...

One down, seven to go. Side by side, German and Austrian comrades fight the eight-headed hydra. Each serpent's head portrayed with nationalistic headgear so that we make no mistake about who the enemy is. Great tone to this painting, the sharp background light nicely contrasts the gloomy, mythical drama being played out at the front.

To all our mates, best!

B~

Thanks WWII for the excellent descriptions.
I found this weird 1907 card and thought it was cool.
Postmarked with a Freiburg cacellation and addressed to Reichenweier.

Some close ups.

Dean,

Nice post cards. Are there dates on these post cards besides the ones mentioned? Thanks.

Hi Mikee.
There are some with correspondence dates,some with postal cancellation dates,some with both,and some with none at all or illegable.

What about the post card of the boy riding the dragon. Any dates or writting? That one interests me. Thanks.

That card is unposted and the only text printed on the back reads:
'Zum besen der f�rsorge f�r die familien der krieger von Hans Thoma.'

Apparently Hans Thoma(1839-1924)was a fairly well known German artist.

Thanks for your interest in the card Mikee.

Yes he was and still is. Do you think this is one of his works?

Mikee-
On art net some of his work looks very similar to the card in question although this exact print wasn't found so at this point my guess is good as yours.Sorry I don't have a definate answer for you.

I thought the hydra card was neat.It reminded me of the guerilla warfare badge of the 3rd reich.

Dean,

It could be, I looked as well but couldn't find that print.

Just a little addition to Bill's outstanding explanation, translation and insight. I think there might be a little more intriguing stuff to a few of your post cards.

The postcard of the unclothed lad riding a mystical dragon, I believe was used to represent the (DJK) Deutscher Jugendkraft or German "Youth Power", and their involvement in either their own competitions and or possibly their involvement in protest during the time when Germany and it's allies were excluded from the Olympic community. In short, the DJK was a faith based Catholic sponsored youth sports organization founded in 1920 in Wurzburg which stayed active until 1933 and then banned. During this time it's members were persecuted and the organizations leader in 1934 Adalbert Probst was arrested and shot by the Gestapo. Hermann Graf, Knights cross of the Iron cross with Oak leaves,Swords and Diamonds was a member in his youth.

The unclothed lad represents,"the power/strength and beauty of youth", the dragon represents, "strength, power, and as stated wars wild fury". Dragon could also be the name of the club or possibly an event. The torch represents, "the warrior will light and lead the way to victory", or the torch was portrayed in this way "maybe" in protest from exclusion in the Olympics.

In 1916 the summer Olympics was awarded to the city of Berlin but cancelled due to WWI and during this time they were virtually banished from the Olympic Committee, so in protest in 1917, Germany founded their own, the Deutscher Reichsausschuss f�r Olympische Spiele,(German Imperial Commission for Olympic games), but within a short time renamed it the Deutcher Reichsausschuss fur Leibesubungen (German Imperial Commission for Physical Exercise).

During the 1920 and 1924 Olympic games Germany was as well excluded. So Germany organized it's own games, the Deutsche Kampfspiele (German fighting/battle games).

Thanks

Thanks for the great interpreation and facts Mikee.Interesting.

'Germania es kommt dein tag' is titled on the reverse of this card.

Card 'Deutsch Meister' An Der Quelle.
Amazon warrior maybe?

I liked how the artist had the horse trampling the flag on this card.

Dean,

As per your usual, great stuff here.

To me, the first postcard illustration might be interpreted in a couple of different ways. "An der Quelle," or "At the Spring," depicts a nude female warrior and her trusty steed refreshing themselves at a natural cold-spring. No doubt they've been out keeping an eye on Germany's bitter enemies? At first glance I agree that she is most likely an Amazon, or auf deutsch, Amazone, with an 'e' at the end. If there was a spear visible in the painting, she might even be a Valkyrie, but I don't think so in this case. Germania in a toned-down, less flashy battle garb? hmm.. nein. The title, "Deutsch Meister," can be explained to mean "German Champion," and that fits pretty well here so I'll leave it at that.

"Well/so, we're about to give them a (good)-beating!" Lot's of vibrant action in this bold graphic, Feldherr-baton in hand, Kaiser Wilhelm leads his entire retinue and national war-train to do battle against the French. It's amazing how much information and fine detail the artist got into this small package. Whatever the exact printing technique was, they did a fine job scaling, prepping and reproducing the artwork. Holding all those tones open and keeping sharp details isn't always a walk in the park. A fine rendering of this ultra-nationalistic theme.

Thanks for posting these two excellent additions from your collection.

Best!

B~

Wow .. Supernice cards and supernice explanations!!! Thanks William, Dean and Mikee

Good hearing from you WWII & Krullies.

Here's one from Wein that may be the same theme as the 1918 'Andreas Hoferbund fur Tirol' art that was posted a few pages back on 1/6/2012.

This card also has the Student League/German School Association symbol printed on the back (recently explained in Bill's excellent write up).

Any opinions/lessons on the history the artist is trying to get across would be appreciated.Thanks

Found what I think to be the answer to my own question about the Tirol cards via wikpedia:

'The Treaty of Saint-Germain-en-Laye of 1919 ruled that, according to the Treaty of London, the southern part of Tyrol had to be ceded to the Kingdom of Italy. Italy's border was pushed northward to the strategically important Alpine water divide, including present day-South Tyrol with its large German-speaking majority. The northern part of Tyrol was retained by the First Austrian Republic.'

Looks like the dark haired Italian's foot breaking the back of the blonde haired chained and powerless German who had his country yanked out from him felt betrayed in a way.

At least thats my perception from what I can find out.

Dean,

I agree that's what your card is about,Italion occupation and I believe another one of your cards sometime back hinted to the same thing or something similar, I just didn't have the time to respond. Thanks.

Thanks for the reply and input Mikee.Hope you've been busy having fun in life.

Germania looking pissed off on this postcard.I'm thinking its by the same artist that did the art posted 2 cards up.

Yes in deed,ready to do battle! Great post cards!

Thanks Mikee.
I have a few new bookplates to post.

A front and back of a 1927 exlibris by artist Otto Hans Beier.

A huge (quarter for scale) 1920's exlibris from artist Walter Clemens Schmidt.

Super cool paper that seems like cloth like.When its held to light you can see where the threads of the book's binding held this page in place.

Dean,

Have you ever considered doing an exhibit of your art collection at one of the shows like the MAX, or the SOS? No doubt it would be well received. To the best of my knowledge I can't recall having ever seen a presentation of German graphic art at one of the big collector events.. mostly weapons. Personally, I feel it'd be a big success, you have so many great images to share, no kidding.

If one enjoys the political/military graphics it seems natural that that person would enjoy the artwork found on these lovely bookplates. The subject-matter, themes and topics that are depicted are so diverse, they certainly present a wide selection of single, and sometimes multi-color, printing techniques.

The two 'ex libris' plates that you've posted are both printed on high-quality cover stock. This was handmade and specially prepared for various types of 'art printing.' Those ornate borders of the stock are what's known as 'deckle-edges,' each having a subtle beauty of their own. Another interesting fact about these bookplates is that the processes used to print 'most' of these images is that each one was printed individually in short, limited runs by hand-operated presses - not printed in the thousands on more automated systems.

Each time the original plate (stone, metal or woodcut) had to be precisely coated with ink and perfectly, evenly transferred to whatever stock was chosen, faithfully preserving all of the details the artist intended for us to see. That first engraving has a much finer intaglio-look to the artwork, holding much detail, whereas the second has that bold, positive-negative feel of a woodcut to me. Both are brilliant, well executed prints. One of the best monsters I've seen in a long while on that second plate, scarey little bugger.

The leitmotif throughout many of the library plates is that of bringing pox and curses down, "on whosoever fails to return this book!" Simple and right to the point, heh. I've had a couple more bookplate images stashed away that I thought you might like, too?

Thanks to one and all for your continuing interest.

Best!

Bill

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