Unteroffizier "Walking Out" Dress Uniform – Ulanen-Regiment Nr. 17 (Saxony) – Farrier – Nobility/Royalty

This striking and exceedingly rare “Walking Out” dress uniform belonged to an Unteroffizier from the prestigious Königlich Sächsisches Ulanen-Regiment Nr. 17, Kaiser Franz Joseph von Österreich, König von Ungarn—a Saxon cavalry regiment named in honor of Austria-Hungary’s emperor, reflecting the dynastic bonds between the German and Austro-Hungarian empires in the late 19th century.

Garrisoned in Oschatz, this regiment formed part of the XII. (Saxon) Army Corps and was renowned for its ceremonial splendor and aristocratic traditions. This privately tailored uniform set, composed of a Ulanka (tunic) and matching trousers, was crafted for a noble-born cavalry NCO—an off-duty ensemble intended for promenades, social functions, and official appearances.

Key Features & Historical Significance

• Regiment: Sächs. Ulanen-Regiment Nr. 17, Kaiser Franz Joseph von Österreich, König von Ungarn
• Garrison: Oschatz, XII. Armeekorps
• “Walking Out” Dress: This uniform was reserved for men of noble lineage or elite social status. The burgundy-striped trousers and hand-finished collar trim in white and burgundy were exclusive to Einjährig-Freiwillige and aristocratic ranks—not found on depot-issued enlisted uniforms.

Farrier Badge & Lance Proficiency

• Gold-Embroidered Horseshoe Insignia (Left Sleeve): Indicates the wearer was a chief farrier, responsible for horse care, health, and cavalry readiness. Gold thread suggests noble connections—typical farrier insignia used white or silver embroidery.
• Lance Proficiency “V” Badge (Right Sleeve): Denotes expertise in mounted lance combat—an honor reserved for highly trained cavalrymen.

Tailoring & Construction

• Ulanka made from deep Saxon blue “doeskin” wool, trimmed in red and white
• Black silk lining—used only for officer-grade or noble-class tailoring
• Epaulets: Brass Saxon-style, retaining original toning and crowned rank insignia
• Trousers: White silk-lined interior, with three pockets (including a coin pocket)
• Buttons hallmarked: “A. Haacke – Oschatz 1. S.” confirming local Saxon provenance

Condition

• Ulanka: Near mint—no moth tracking or damage
• Trousers: Two very minor moth nips on left leg (unchanged since original acquisition 40+ years ago)
• Insignia, buttons, and structure fully intact

Estimated Date

• Circa 1895–1910, prior to field gray (feldgrau) reforms of 1910
• Lacks wartime medal loops or ribbons—clearly prewar ceremonial use

Rarity

Parade uniforms from Saxon Ulanen regiments are among the hardest Imperial German tunics to locate, especially those connected to the four major kingdoms: Saxony, Bavaria, Württemberg, and Prussia. The "Walking Out" variant is rarer still, particularly when linked to noble-class service. This uniform is an outstanding example of the fusion between military prestige and aristocratic display.

Museum-Quality Provenance

This is a museum-grade ensemble with remarkable heritage and craftsmanship. It tells the story of the Saxon cavalry’s ceremonial traditions and stands as a testament to both military refinement and noble entitlement. It would elevate any serious collection focused on German Imperial uniforms, cavalry, or courtly traditions of the 19th century.

Historical Note

This ensemble was originally misidentified as belonging to Ulanen-Regiment Nr. 18. Thanks to input from Christian of Oschatz, who is personally familiar with the 17th Regiment and its garrison location, we have corrected the listing. We also extend our thanks to Rich from the U.S.A. for his additional notes and insight. This collaboration underscores our shared passion for preserving and accurately representing historical artifacts.