Imperial German Navy Lifebuoy Plaque – SMS Condor – Hand-Painted with Named Sailor Inscription

This exceptional and evocative wall display honors the SMS Condor, a Bussard-class unprotected cruiser of the Imperial German Navy launched in 1891. Crafted in the form of a lifebuoy, the circular wooden frame is painted deep navy with four gold-painted rope accents and thick maritime-style cord strung through for hanging. The upper and lower quadrants boldly read “S.M.S.” and “CONDOR” in raised, hand-painted golden lettering.

At the center is a vivid, hand-painted depiction of Condor under full steam in churning seas. She flies the Imperial German war ensign from the stern, with precise rendering of masts, rigging, funnels, and armament. The painting shows age-appropriate craquelure and surface wear but remains vibrant and atmospheric. The maritime artistry is complemented by a deep green-blue sea and a glowing sky rendered in moody tones of yellow and gray, reflecting the romanticism of late 19th-century naval service.

Inscription on Reverse (Translated from German):

“Ewald Dübe
Born 16 July 1876 in Leichdorf near Solingen
Died 1 July 1955 in Ottweiler
Served his military time aboard this sailing vessel.
He also participated as a [Petty Officer?] in a voyage
(28 months) to the Seychelles and other southern lands.”*

*Note: Some terms are obscured or faded, but the essential details—his full name, birth and death, and time served aboard the Condor—are clear.

Historical Background:

The Condor belonged to the Bussard-class of small cruisers used to patrol and enforce German colonial interests across Africa, the Pacific, and Asia. These ships symbolized German power projection during Kaiser Wilhelm II’s “place in the sun” ambitions. Service in the Indian Ocean, particularly around the Seychelles, matches known deployment zones of German East Asia and East Africa squadrons.

Condition:

• Front: Excellent vintage patina, with craquelure on the painting. No restorations noted. Paint stable and legible.

• Back: Original paper insert is aged and slightly worn but intact and legible. Rope hanging system fully intact and functional.

• Overall: A rare survivor with both visual and documentary appeal, bridging art and authentic naval history.

Collector Appeal:

Highly desirable for collectors of:

• Kaiserliche Marine artifacts

• Naval-themed folk art

• German colonial memorabilia

• Personalized military items with biographical provenance

This plaque is not only visually compelling but anchored in personal and global history, making it a rare offering among naval collectibles.