Large Relief Wall Plaque of Generalfeldmarschall von Hindenburg – Cast Metal on Wood

A powerful, oversized bronze-finished relief plaque of Generalfeldmarschall Paul von Hindenburg, one of the most prominent German military figures of World War I. This museum-scale piece—heavily cast and mounted on thick, paneled wood—is an exceptional tribute suitable for commanding display in any militaria collection, study, or gallery wall.

Historical Context

Paul von Hindenburg (1847–1934) served as Chief of the German General Staff and ultimately as President of the Weimar Republic. He rose to national prominence for his victories on the Eastern Front during WWI, particularly the 1914 Battle of Tannenberg. By 1916, he had assumed supreme military command as Generalfeldmarschall and, alongside Erich Ludendorff, directed Germany’s war effort through its final years.

This plaque likely dates from the wartime or interwar period (circa 1916–1930), a time when Hindenburg’s image was widely circulated in patriotic iconography throughout Germany. These commemorative plaques were typically produced in limited batches for government buildings, officer messes, or veteran organizations. The craftsmanship and materials here suggest this was a serious commission—possibly a post-WWI veteran’s hall or civic installation.

Physical Description

• Subject: Portrait of Generalfeldmarschall von Hindenburg in uniform, full name inscribed in relief at lower edge

• Material: Heavy cast metal or bronze-finished composite (appears to be zinc or iron with bronze patina)

• Backing: Substantial wooden frame, stained dark, with visible dowel construction and iron hanging brackets

• Dimensions: 22 inches wide x 26 inches tall (plaque and frame together)

• Relief: Deep casting with pronounced facial features, signature mustache, and military collar

• Mounting: Solid wood backboard with wide beveled face; rear shows age, hand tooling, and square nail construction

Condition

Very good overall. Metal surface retains its original dark bronze finish with localized patina and some age spotting, especially lower right. Wood frame shows light scuffing and wear from age but remains structurally sound and display-ready. Rear shows age-appropriate wear, no warping or separation. A commanding presentation piece.

Provenance

Acquired from a private estate collection. No visible maker’s mark or foundry stamp, but style and construction are consistent with patriotic German wall plaques from the WWI and early Weimar eras.