Bavarian Leutnant Shoulder Straps – 1. Ulanen-Regt. Kaiser Wilhelm II

This is a fine matched pair of officer’s shoulder straps from the prestigious 1. Bayerisches Ulanen-Regiment “Kaiser Wilhelm II., König von Preußen”, one of Bavaria’s most distinguished cavalry regiments of the Imperial era.

The straps are constructed of flat silver bullion lace, neatly sewn over a crimson red wool underlay—the Waffenfarbe specific to the Bavarian Ulanen. Their elongated, narrow form and simple bullion design are correct for junior officer ranks, and in this case denote the rank of Leutnant. The absence of gilt pips or cyphers confirms the lowest commissioned grade; Oberleutnante would have carried one gilt pip, while higher ranks bore more elaborate interwoven cord boards.

The crimson backing remains sound, though showing typical service toning and light wear from age. The reverse construction reveals the expected reinforcement strips, stitched in for durability where the straps affixed to the Waffenrock or service tunic. The bullion itself has toned to a muted silver-grey, with only minor fray, but remains supple and attractive with a pleasing field patina.

The 1. Ulanen-Regiment was raised in 1863 and proudly carried the honorific title of Kaiser Wilhelm II, underscoring Bavaria’s dynastic ties with Prussia within the Imperial German Army. Officers of this regiment were both elite horsemen and symbols of Bavarian martial prestige, resplendent in their dark blue tunics with crimson facings and traditional czapka headdress. This regiment garrisoned at Ansbach and Bamberg, and its officers were often present at Imperial functions in both Munich and Berlin.

These straps would have been worn in both peacetime and the opening years of the Great War, before the decline of traditional cavalry on the Western Front. Their survival in this condition is especially noteworthy, as officer’s insignia were often stripped postwar.

Condition: Very good overall. Bullion toned with age but intact; crimson underlay vibrant; stitching firm; only light wear to reverse consistent with field or parade use.

A scarce and desirable set from Bavaria’s premier Ulanen regiment, with excellent display appeal for collectors of Imperial cavalry insignia.