Imperial German Soldier Cabinet Card – Erinnerung an meine Militärzeit – Neumünster Studio

This original cabinet card photograph captures a young Imperial German soldier in formal uniform, taken as a keepsake during his military service (“Erinnerung an meine Militärzeit” – In Memory of My Military Service). The portrait is finely posed, showing the soldier in a high-collared tunic with shoulder straps clearly visible, seated before a decorative studio montage. The floral vignette includes a smaller portrait of Kaiser Wilhelm II, symbolizing loyalty to the German Emperor.

The image was produced by the noted photographer O. Olesen of Neumünster, Schleswig-Holstein, whose studio was located at Grossflecken 49, next to the Tonhalle. The reverse features elegant printed studio information and awards, noting recognition at the Frankfurt a.M. 1900 and Hannover 1901 exhibitions. The ornate crest incorporating the Prussian eagle further emphasizes the military theme and the prestige of the photographer.

Historical Context:
Cabinet card photographs such as this were commonly commissioned by enlisted men and non-commissioned officers at the end of their service period, often gifted to family as a memento. The presence of Kaiser Wilhelm II’s portrait reflects the national pride of the era and the close association between military service and imperial loyalty in pre-WWI Germany.

Condition:

• Photograph retains excellent contrast with only minor surface wear from age

• Crisp studio imprint on the reverse with light handling marks

• Corners slightly rounded from handling, typical for the period

• No creases or tears

Provenance:
Acquired in Germany, part of a larger collection of early 20th-century Imperial German photographic memorabilia.