Imperial German Navy Postcard – Squadron at Dusk

This striking Imperial German Navy postcard captures a dramatic evening scene of a battle squadron steaming out for a sortie at dusk. The lead ship, bathed in the glow of reflected light, is followed by a line of dreadnoughts and cruisers, their silhouettes framed by rising smoke and the shimmer of the setting sun on the water. The German caption at the upper left reads: "Ein Geschwader, bei Dunkelwerden zu einem Vorstoß auslaufend" ("A squadron, at nightfall, departing for an attack"). Along the right edge is the imprint "Mit Genehmigung der Illustrierten Zeitung, Leipzig" ("With permission of the Illustrated Newspaper, Leipzig"), indicating the artwork was reproduced from a contemporary illustrated periodical.

The artist’s signature, E. Zaschke, appears along the lower left border. This painter was known for evocative depictions of Kaiserliche Marine warships in action.

HISTORICAL CONTEXT:
This postcard likely dates to the WWI era, when German naval propaganda frequently celebrated the power and readiness of the High Seas Fleet. Depictions such as this were designed to stir patriotic sentiment and convey the might of Germany’s modern capital ships—particularly at a time when they were engaged in a tense naval standoff with Britain’s Grand Fleet in the North Sea.

PHYSICAL DETAILS:

• Standard period postcard format

• Lithographic print on card stock

• Unused, with divided back marked “Postkarte”

• Crisp, detailed image with fine coloration typical of pre-war and wartime German printing techniques

CONDITION:
Overall very good for age. Light edge wear and minor surface scuffing consistent with age, but no creases or significant losses. Colors remain vibrant with only slight toning to reverse.