1914 WWI German Patriotic Hand-Painted Wooden Box – “Für Kaiser und Reich” Motif

This is a striking and original World War I-era German patriotic wooden box, beautifully hand-painted and dated 1914. Measuring approximately 10 x 8 x 6.5 inches, the box is constructed from solid wood with decorative steel hinges and corner hardware. It features a highly stylized form with sculpted, flared sides and a slightly elevated lid, giving it a bold architectural silhouette.

The box is painted in rich tones of black, gold, red, and olive green, adorned with stylized oak leaves, acorns, and Imperial symbols. Most prominently, the top displays a large 1914 Iron Cross motif flanked by the words:
“MIT GOTT · FÜR KAISER UND REICH” (“With God · For Kaiser and Empire”)
—one of the most iconic patriotic slogans of the German Empire during the First World War.

Additional motifs include crossed swords, a heraldic crown, and scrollwork flourishes typical of folk-art and regimental souvenir styles. The front is dated "1914" within a red and gold circle, reinforcing the box’s wartime provenance. Both the rear and side panels display acorn and leaf motifs, associated with strength and national pride in Germanic tradition.

The interior is plain and unfinished, revealing its hand-cut joinery and construction details. The box was likely intended as a keepsake chest or gift, perhaps presented to or made by a soldier or supporter of the war effort. It may have been used to store medals, letters, or personal effects tied to frontline service or patriotic fundraising.

Condition:
Very good overall with minor wear and flaking to painted surfaces, appropriate to age. Hardware is complete and functional. Some scuffing and darkening to high points and corners, which adds character. Interior is clean with signs of age but no structural damage.

Historical Note:
Such decorated boxes were often created in the early years of the Great War as expressions of support for the Kaiser and the troops. Civilian fundraising campaigns, homefront workshops, or unit gift presentations frequently produced painted items like this. While they were never mass-produced, they became treasured heirlooms—many having been destroyed or discarded during the upheavals following WWI and WWII. Surviving examples are scarce, especially in this size and condition.

Display Suggestions:
A standout centerpiece for any WWI display, this box pairs beautifully with Iron Crosses, war bonds, trench art, or Imperial flags. It also makes an ideal storage vessel for a medal bar, pickelhaube spike, or small relic collection.