Autograph Slip “Lans” – General der Kavallerie, Imperial German Army

This offering is an original Imperial German autograph slip bearing a bold period signature reading “Lans,” accompanied by a clearly written rank designation beneath: “General der Kavallerie.” The slip is executed in dark ink on light card stock consistent with early 20th-century German autograph material. The hand is confident and practiced, with sweeping upper strokes and controlled flourishes typical of senior officers accustomed to formal correspondence and official signing. The piece is unmounted and unframed, allowing full inspection of paper tone, ink flow, and natural aging.

The rank “General der Kavallerie” was among the highest general officer grades in the Imperial German Army, reserved for senior commanders with long service careers, typically overseeing corps-level formations or holding significant peacetime commands. Autographs identifying the rank so explicitly are less common than simple name-only signatures, as most generals did not routinely add full titles unless the autograph was intended for formal presentation or collection. The surname “Lans,” paired with this rank, is most consistent with General der Kavallerie Karl von Lans, though no first name, date, or unit attribution is present on the slip itself. Accordingly, the identification is offered as an attribution rather than a definitive personal identification.

From a collector standpoint, this piece sits at the intersection of autograph collecting and Imperial German officer history. Signed material from high-ranking generals is increasingly difficult to source, particularly when detached from albums or documents, as many such slips were lost or discarded over time. The combination of legible rank designation and strong signature makes this an appealing study piece for collectors of German Army general officers, autograph specialists, and those assembling reference groups of Imperial-era handwriting.

Condition is honest and original. The paper shows expected age toning and minor surface wear consistent with handling and storage over many decades. There are no modern alterations, repairs, or enhancements observed. Ink remains stable and legible, with no evidence of bleeding or later retracing.