Framed Funeral Procession Photograph of Count Zeppelin – Stuttgart, March 1917

A rare and dramatically composed photograph of the state funeral of Count Ferdinand von Zeppelin, held in Stuttgart on March 12, 1917. A haunting Zeppelin airship looms overhead as the procession—including Württemberg’s King Wilhelm II—follows the flower-draped casket of the aviation pioneer. Elegantly framed with museum glass, this powerful wartime image bridges the worlds of aviation history, German imperial culture, and WWI-era mourning.

Historical Context

Ferdinand Graf von Zeppelin (1838–1917) was a German general and aviation visionary whose innovations led to the creation of rigid airships—forever bearing his name. His work transformed German military reconnaissance and strategic bombing during World War I, particularly through the Imperial Navy and Army’s Zeppelin corps.

When Count Zeppelin died in March 1917, the German Empire mourned deeply. This photograph captures the somber funeral procession through Stuttgart, where his casket was escorted with military ceremony and fire cauldrons burned above ceremonial pillars. A Zeppelin airship can be seen overhead in a final aerial tribute. At the head of the procession stands King Wilhelm II of Württemberg, the last king of the Württemberg monarchy.

The German-language caption beneath the image reads:

"Die Beisetzung des Grafen Zeppelin in Stuttgart am 12. März 1917. An der Spitze des Zuges König Wilhelm II. von Württemberg."

("The burial of Count Zeppelin in Stuttgart on March 12, 1917. At the head of the procession, King Wilhelm II of Württemberg.")

Physical Description

• Image Type: Black-and-white archival photograph

• Subject: Zeppelin funeral procession with airship overhead

• Caption: Printed in German on mounted label beneath the image

• Framed Size: Approx. 14 x 10 inches

• Framing: Professionally framed by Primrose Framing (Maine), using Tru Vue museum glass with 99% UV protection

• Mat: Pale beige/cream mat board with black fillet edge

• Frame Style: Black ornate pattern metal or wood-look composite

Condition

Excellent condition throughout. The photograph is clean with strong contrast. Mat and backing are professionally mounted. Frame is free of chips or damage. Museum glass remains spotless and glare-resistant, ideal for archival protection and display. Ready to hang.

Provenance

Framed in Rockland, Maine by Primrose Framing, suggesting U.S.-based private collection. Image likely originated from a German publication or original period photograph, professionally cut and preserved.