Germany, Nsdap. A Gauleiter Josef Bürckel Funeral Sash

(Begräbnis-Schärpe). Constructed of heavy ribbed red rayon, completing at each end in a striking gold bullion wire fringe, one end of the obverse stitched with a white rayon disc measuring 11.5 cm in diameter and bearing a dyed black mobile swastika, the opposite end bearing a gilt inscription of “BÜRCKEL, GAULEITER” for then-Gau Westmark regional leader Josef Bürckel, otherwise unmarked, measuring 15 cm (w) x 164 cm (l), demonstrating minor soiling, in extremely fine condition.

Footnote: As Gauleiter Josef Bürckel died on 28 September 1944, it is unclear whether this sash was previously dedicated by Bürckel to a memorial display at a funeral, or whether it was used for the funeral service of Bürckel himself. Notably, he was one of only 11 recipients of the German Order, which, as with most inductees, was bestowed posthumously.