Imperial German Officer's Dress Waist Sash with Provenance to Unteroffizier Menger, Husaren-Regiment Nr. 4

This exceptionally preserved Imperial German officer’s waist sash (Offizier-Feldbinde) is a striking artifact of ceremonial military dress, featuring exquisite craftsmanship and direct provenance to a named non-commissioned officer. Constructed from interwoven cords of ivory and brown silk thread, the sash culminates in a pair of large, heavy bullion tassels — a hallmark of Imperial cavalry dress. The weave exhibits both zigzag and herringbone patterns, showcasing the refined detail expected from high-ranking regimental regalia.

Most significantly, this piece retains its original owner’s cloth identification tag stitched firmly into the belt. It reads:

Unteroffizier Menger
5. Esk. 1. Schles.
Hus.-Regt. Nr. 4.
Listen Nr. 146

This identifies Menger as an Unteroffizier (non-commissioned officer) of the 5th Squadron of the 1. Schlesisches Husaren-Regiment Nr. 4, one of the most prestigious light cavalry regiments in the Prussian Army, based in Ohlau, Silesia. This unit participated in numerous military campaigns throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries and was deeply tied to aristocratic military tradition.

Condition:
The sash remains in very fine condition, with vibrant coloration to the threads and fully intact bullion tassels. The cord loops are supple and undamaged. Light fraying is visible in one knot and around the edges of the identification label, consistent with careful storage and light use. The sash is structurally solid, with no unraveling or excessive fading.

Historical Relevance:
Sashes such as this were worn with the full-dress uniform, often in parades, formal reviews, and officer gatherings. Their presence in a collection adds a visual anchor of prestige and color, especially when tied to a specific soldier. The association with a named Hussar from a prestigious regiment significantly increases this example’s collector appeal.

Display Suggestions:
This piece displays beautifully when mounted on a velvet-lined board beneath a Hussar sabretache or sword. It also complements a full officer’s uniform or shadowbox ensemble for a vivid impression of Imperial German cavalry elegance.

Collector's Note:
Named uniform accessories with surviving tags are highly sought after, particularly from cavalry regiments. This example provides both aesthetic beauty and traceable provenance — making it a standout addition for collectors of Imperial German militaria, especially those focused on cavalry or identified soldiers.