Original Item. Only One Available. A.K.O 21 September 1915 announced the release of a completely new pattern of tunic called the M1915. Bayern (Bavaria) did not adopt the Bluse until 31 March 1916, so a Bayern Bluse is known as a M1916 Bluse. The Bluse was to be used by all units, including cavalry. The tunic was made with a looser cut than earlier uniforms, which allowed heavier undergarments to be worn. This cut also resulted in a greater degree of mobility and comfort for the wearer. The Bluse was completely void of piping and utilized the simplified rear skirt design and barrel cuffs of the Vereinfachte tunics.
This is a fantastic example of a very scarce M1915 Feldbluse, with its original configurations minus the back of the tunic which has had the buttons and belt loops removed and sewn together. The cuffs and collar are in their original configuration, along with the buttons. The collar catch is broken on one side. The six buttons on the front are intact but some are chipped. The coat has light mothing across with the back having some larger holes. The collar is not green like it would be on the M1915 Feldbluse of other states. However, the pockets have Prussian crown buttons, meaning this one could’ve been worn by a Prussian later, or the buttons were added later. This example has very faint size markings on the interior next to the pocket:
91 46
94 67
There are likely other markings, but they are just far too worn to be read properly. The uniform is in very good condition, especially considering its age and just how rare WWI Imperial German Feldgrau uniforms are. There is mothing and small nips here are there throughout the body of the uniform, with some old, very small, collector’s repairs in areas. Some of the nap of the fabric has worn away in areas, but overall it shows only light wear. Overall, a very attractive tunic that displays very nicely despite these slight drawbacks.
Imperial German Feldgrau uniforms are incredibly hard to find on the market today, both officer and enlisted. Aside from the attrition of clothing worn in the trenches, much was burned as a result of the Spanish Influenza Pandemic and lice infestations. What survived was either worn out by veterans who repurposed their old uniforms as everyday clothing following the bleak years during the massive depression that raged throughout Germany, or, was simply repurposed or converted for use with the Reichswehr.
An excellent addition to any First World War German Uniform collection!