Double Autographed Postcard of General der Infanterie Karl Ludwig d’Elsa

General der Infanterie Karl Ludwig d’Elsa (1849-1922) was a distinguished figure in the Imperial German Army, with a military career spanning several key historical periods. Born in Saxony, he dedicated his entire career to the Saxon army, participating in the Franco-Prussian War and receiving the 1870 Iron Cross 2nd Class for his valor. His steady rise through the ranks saw him promoted to Generalmajor in 1899, Generalleutnant in 1904, and General der Infanterie in 1908.

During World War I, d’Elsa commanded the Saxon XII Armeekorps, leading his troops through significant battles, including those at Marne and Aisne. His exemplary leadership earned him the Orden Pour le Mérite in September 1916, followed by the Oak Leaves in April 1918. After his retirement, he was honored with the rank of Generaloberst.

This autographed postcard, Nr 5558, features a rare double signature of d’Elsa. The photograph shows him in uniform, wearing the 1870 Iron Cross 2nd Class and a major Saxon neck order. The top of the postcard identifies him as “Führer einer Armee,” indicating his leadership role. His faint signature on the front and a bold, readable signature on the reverse, along with an inscription, add a personal touch to this historical artifact.

• Historical Relevance: Commander of the Saxon XII Armeekorps, recipient of the Orden Pour le Mérite and Oak Leaves
• Awards: 1870 Iron Cross 2nd Class, Orden Pour le Mérite (1916), Oak Leaves (1918)
• Appearance: Full uniform with military decorations
• Condition: Excellent, never mailed

SEO Keywords: Karl Ludwig d’Elsa, Saxon military history, WWI German generals, autographed historical postcards, military collectibles

External Links:

• Interactive WWI Simulation Game: https://store.steampowered.com/app/312980/Verdun/
• Historical Review of the Franco-Prussian War: https://www.britannica.com/event/Franco-German-War

Cultural Connection: His leadership during key battles and the rich military history of Saxony are often depicted in historical documentaries and media, providing enthusiasts and collectors with a tangible connection to the past.

Condition Notes: The postcard is in excellent condition with a rare double signature, offering a unique glimpse into the decorated career of General d’Elsa. It is a valuable addition to any collection of WWI memorabilia.