Plaque 003 : German Imperial Schutztruppe – Antique Military Portrait Relief

German Imperial Schutztruppe – Antique Military Portrait Relief

**An unusual piece of Imperial German military history, from the private collection of the late Peter Haller.**

This distinctive roundish cast-metal relief depicts a male military figure in profile, associated with the Imperial German Schutztruppe (Kaiserliche Schutztruppe), the colonial military forces stationed in German South West Africa (present-day Namibia).

The Schutztruppe played an important role in the history of German South West Africa from the late 19th century until the German surrender in 1915. Its members were stationed throughout the territory, including Windhoek, Swakopmund and other military settlements.

The relief has a particularly attractive, heavily aged surface, with dark, naturally developed patina and visible traces of its original finish. Its somewhat irregular outline and substantial construction give it an interesting character.

The exact identity and military rank of the depicted individual, as well as the original purpose of the relief, remain unidentified.

**Object details:**
- Period: Probably late 19th to early 20th century
- Historical association: Imperial German military / Schutztruppe
- Material: Cast metal, apparently steel or iron (not tested)
- Dimensions: Approximately 15 cm
- Weight: Approximately 750 g
- Condition: Antique, with substantial age-related wear and attractive old patina
- Provenance: Private collection of the late Peter Haller

An interesting collector's object for enthusiasts of German military history, colonial-era memorabilia and the history of German South West Africa.