German WWI Fighter Pilot Group Photo – Featuring autograph of Max Ritter von Mulzer, Pour le Mérite Winner

This remarkable Sanke postcard (No. 373) captures a distinguished group of Imperial German fighter pilots from World War I, including the notable Leutnant Max Ritter von Mulzer, a decorated Bavarian ace and recipient of the Pour le Mérite (Blue Max).

The printed caption at the bottom reads:
“Hauptmann Boelcke und Oberleutnant Immelmann im Kreise ihrer Kameraden.”
This translates to “Captain Boelcke and First Lieutenant Immelmann among their comrades,” identifying the presence of early German aviation icons Oswald Boelcke and Max Immelmann, whose leadership and aerial tactics shaped the future of fighter combat.

While Boelcke and Immelmann are referenced in the caption, the group photo also notably features von Mulzer, whose bold autograph appears across the image — a rare and historically significant signature for collectors.

About Max Ritter von Mulzer

• Service and Achievements: Born August 9, 1893, in Kimratshofen, Bavaria, Max Ritter von Mulzer served with Feldflieger-Abteilungen before joining the fighter units of the Imperial German Air Service. He achieved ten confirmed aerial victories, making him one of Bavaria’s earliest and most celebrated fighter aces.

• Pour le Mérite: Awarded Germany’s highest military honor, the Pour le Mérite, on July 12, 1916 — making him the first Bavarian pilot to receive the Blue Max.

• Tragic End: On September 26, 1916, while flying an Albatros D.I during training, von Mulzer’s aircraft suffered a structural failure. He was killed instantly, just weeks after receiving his award.

The Postcard

• Publisher: Postkarte W. Sanke, Berlin (No. 373)

• Signature: The front bears von Mulzer’s autograph, boldly signed across the image.

• Reverse: Blank, with standard postcard markings including the outlined triangle and sunburst stamp box design.

Condition

Excellent overall. The photograph retains sharp clarity with minimal edge wear. The signature remains clean and distinct. The reverse is unused and well-preserved, free from damage or writing.

Historical Context

This postcard is a rare and highly desirable artifact linking three of Imperial Germany’s most celebrated aviators — Boelcke, Immelmann, and von Mulzer. Von Mulzer’s early death and limited number of signed photographs make his autograph extremely scarce, adding significant historical and collector value to this piece.

Dimensions: Standard postcard size, approximately 3.5 x 5.5 inches.

A centerpiece-worthy addition for any World War I aviation collection, particularly for those focused on German fighter aces and Pour le Mérite recipients.