April 2026 Militaria and Political Auction
Lot 42:
Description
Rectangular bakelite commemorative tray produced in Germany to mark the Saar plebiscite of 1935, following which the Saar Territory was returned to Germany. The tray features the slogan “Die Saar ist Deutsch” (“The Saar is German”) in Gothic script across the top, with a central national emblem and stylized radiating design.
The illustrated scene depicts regional industrial buildings and landscape imagery associated with the Saar region, emphasizing coal, steel, and heavy industry. At the lower edge are two inscribed dates: 13 January 1935, referencing the plebiscite vote, and 1 March 1935, the date of the territory’s formal reintegration into Germany.
Executed in a black and gold color scheme, the tray reflects the graphic and symbolic style used in official and semi-official commemorative items of the period. Constructed of thin metal with rolled edges, it was intended as a decorative or presentation object rather than everyday tableware.
Condition shows age-related wear, surface scratching, and patina consistent with period use and storage.
This item represents a historical artifact associated with interwar European politics and propaganda, illustrating how material culture was used to commemorate political events in 1930s Germany.
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