Faux-metallic embossed German [Prussian] military decoration with ribbon, consisting of black Imperial eagle (Reichsadler) with Landwehrkreuz motto, over silver and gold eight-pointed star.

Author: 
German (Prussian) military decoration [Reichsadler; Landwehrkreuz; World War; Germany army]
Publication details: 
[First World War or earlier.]
£120.00
SKU: 7878

An attractive and delicate piece of ephemera, dusty and slightly tarnished, but in very good condition overall. Skilfully manufactured and giving a convincing metallic appearance. 15 cm wide from opposing points of the star, which is of gold card overlaid with silver silver card, both types embossed in a pattern of pearls of different sizes radiating out from the centre, over which sits the Reichsadler, of embossed black card, 6 cm high by 7 cm wide, crowned, with wings outstretched, orb and sceptre in its talons. Across its breast is the motto 'Mit Gott fur Koenig und Vaterland' above a shield bearing the monogram initials 'F R' [i.e. 'Friedrich Rex', the motto originally being that of Friedrich Wilhelm III]. Across the tip of the uppermost point of the star is a crossed ribbon, of black with grey edges, held in place by a small embossed flower in silver card. The central part of the reverse has been lightly laid down on a piece of red paper with blue paper border, but the item is easily detachable. Originally Prussian, the motto was employed by German infantry Landwehr regiments until the end of the First World War. Further or more accurate information would be welcomed!