Unser Heldent Kaiser – Festschrift zum 100. Geburtstag Kaiser Wilhelms I, 1897

Offered here is an exceptional Imperial German commemorative volume Unser Heldent Kaiser, published in Berlin in 1897 by Schall & Grund to honor the centennial birthday of Kaiser Wilhelm I, the first German Emperor. This deluxe Festschrift was authored by Dr. Wilhelm Oncken, a noted professor of history, and richly produced with illustrations directed by Professor W. Büße of the Reichsdruckerei (Imperial Printing Office).

The book is bound in a striking white cloth cover embossed with gilt and silver highlights, featuring the imperial crown, cornflower motifs, oak leaves, and the cipher “W” for Wilhelm. The spine is similarly decorated with gilt floral embellishments and titling. Internally, the work spans over 200 pages and includes portraits, facsimiles of royal documents, reproductions of letters, and illustrations of key events from Wilhelm’s reign. Content covers his youth, military career, the wars of unification, the Franco-Prussian War, and his role in the creation of the German Empire.

Of special note is a dedication inscription dated 1896 and the striking facsimile signatures of Kaiser Wilhelm I, adding to its historical gravitas. The interior remains clean and well-preserved with strong paper and crisp text.

Condition: The exterior shows minor age wear, with slight corner rubbing and light handling marks. The gilt cover and spine decorations remain bright and attractive. The interior pages are clean with occasional age toning. The binding is firm.

Historical Significance: Kaiser Wilhelm I (1797–1888) was central to German unification, leading Prussia through the wars against Denmark, Austria, and France, culminating in the proclamation of the German Empire in 1871. This commemorative work was issued at a time when Imperial Germany sought to enshrine his legacy as “Unser Heldent Kaiser” (Our Hero Emperor).

Dimensions: Approx. 12 x 9 inches (30 x 23 cm).

A rare and highly decorative Imperial German commemorative publication, suitable for collectors of Prussian and German Empire history, militaria libraries, or those seeking an ornate centerpiece for display.