WWI German Kriegs-Karte von Mitteleuropa Folding War Map by Prof. W. Liebenow

This original Imperial German First World War folding war map is titled “Prof. W. Liebenow’s Kriegs-Karte von Mitteleuropa” and represents a contemporary strategic cartographic reference intended for wartime use. The map was produced by Gea Verlag G.m.b.H., Berlin W 35, with printing executed by the Berliner Lithographisches Institut, a respected period firm known for high-quality lithographic work. The stated scale is 1:2,000,000, consistent with operational and strategic overview mapping rather than purely civilian educational use.

The map is printed on period paper stock and issued in a large folding format. When unfolded, it presents a comprehensive view of Central Europe, with Germany and Austria-Hungary clearly delineated, enemy territories distinctly color-shaded, and fortified positions of enemies and neutral states marked with red symbols. Insets provide expanded geographic coverage, including the British Isles, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, South America, Australia, and German colonial possessions, reflecting the truly global scope of the conflict and Germany’s strategic worldview during the war years.

Color coding remains legible, with Germany and Austria-Hungary identified in muted green tones, enemy regions shaded in light red, and neutral areas clearly differentiated. Dense rail networks, political boundaries, coastal routes, and maritime approaches are all crisply rendered, underscoring the map’s intended function as a serious reference tool rather than decorative ephemera. The typographic style, symbology, and layout are entirely consistent with wartime German military and academic cartographic standards.

Condition is honest and fully commensurate with age and use. The map shows multiple original fold lines with visible toning and edge wear throughout. There are areas of paper thinning and small losses along fold intersections, particularly at stress points, as well as scattered age spotting and general surface patina. No modern repairs are observed. Despite wear, the map remains complete, structurally intact, and fully readable when opened, retaining strong visual and historical presence.

From a collector standpoint, this is a desirable example of WWI German wartime cartography, combining academic authority, military relevance, and visual impact. Large-format folding war maps survive less frequently than postcards or small documents due to their fragility and heavy use. The association with Prof. W. Liebenow, the Berlin publisher, and the clearly wartime geopolitical framing elevate this piece beyond generic period maps. It displays exceptionally well when carefully flattened or professionally mounted and fits naturally within advanced Imperial German, WWI military history, or cartographic collections.

Condition summary: complete original folding map with age toning, fold wear, edge losses, and period patina; no restoration observed.