Germany, Imperial. A Rare Imperial Navy Grand Admiral’s Flag, 1900-1918 Pattern

(Kommandoflagge eines Großadmirals der Kaiserlichen Marine). A rare and well-preserved Kaiserliche Marine (Imperial German Navy) Großadmiral (Grand Admiral) flag, constructed of a heavy white cotton twill base, bearing a double-sided dyed black Cross Pattée, overlaid by multi-coloured Admiral's batons, in turn bearing a detailed German State Crown, the hoist edge reinforced with an additional layer of white cotton twill featuring a hollow channel which retains a period original suspension rope, with both corners of the hoist edge also reinforced with square white cotton twill panels to prevent fraying and tearing during display, unmarked, measuring 200 cm (l) x 400 cm (h), demonstrating age-appropriate soiling and material fatigue throughout, the latter including some holes showing period hand-stitched repairs, a scarce and stunning example in better than very fine condition.

Footnote: Six individuals were documented as being authorized to fly this flag, including Kaiser Wilhelm II, King Oscar II of Sweden (Honourary), Hans von Koester, Prince Heinrich of Prussia, Alfred von Tirpitz, and Henning von Holtzendorff.