This commemorative plaque was produced in 1936 for the Berlin Summer Olympics and marks the 400th anniversary of Richard Wagner’s birth, though the date is symbolically assigned rather than referring to the famous 19th-century composer himself. Cast in bronzed metal and measuring approximately 6.25 by 5.25 inches, the plaque depicts a stylized medieval knight in Gothic armor mounted on horseback, holding a torch and a shield. The Olympic rings and date “1936” are embossed in the upper left, while the lower left bears the inscription “1536–1936, 400 Jahre Wagner,” tying the image to nationalist cultural celebrations of the time. The design is infused with the ideological imagery common to Third Reich propaganda, using the figure of a knight to evoke ideals of martial virtue, discipline, and Germanic heritage. Surrounding the knight are verses from Goethe’s Faust, rendered in stylized script. These verses speak to stoicism, power, and resistance, emphasizing the themes of strength and perseverance. Though the spacing and stylization make exact translation difficult, the general message reflects the Nazi regime’s emphasis on heroic struggle and cultural pride. The plaque likely served both as an Olympic souvenir and a propagandistic cultural artifact, blending celebration of the international games with nationalist symbolism. It reflects how the Nazi government used the 1936 Olympics not only as a global sporting event but as a stage for ideological messaging—invoking historic German figures like Wagner and Goethe to legitimize its vision of national identity. This example survives with a heavy patina and loop for suspension, and it remains a compelling example of how art and political narrative were interwoven in prewar Germany. At VDG Militaria, we are dedicated to providing collectors with an exceptional selection of original military antiques. Our passion for history and commitment to authenticity ensure that every item we offer is thoroughly researched, accurately described, and meticulously photographed. Whether you are a seasoned collector or new to the world of militaria, our curated inventory includes a diverse range of artifacts from various periods and conflicts. From uniforms and insignia to medals and equipment, we aim to connect you with pieces that tell the stories of the past. Our expertise and attention to detail mean you can trust that every item you purchase is genuine and precisely represented. Customer satisfaction is our top priority, and we strive to make your collecting experience as seamless and enjoyable as possible. If you have any inquiries or need assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. Using the Offer Feature We are pleased to offer a "Make an Offer" feature on our website, allowing you to negotiate the price of items that catch your eye. Once you submit an offer, expect an email from us shortly after. If your offer is accepted, the email will include a special payment link for your convenience. Please check your spam folder if you have strict email filters. We promise to respond to all offers as quickly as possible. If you do not hear from us within one business day, feel free to reach out directly via phone or text at the contact information below to ensure your request is promptly addressed. Contact Us For the fastest response, we recommend reaching out via email or text. We typically reply to emails and text messages the quickest. 📧 Email: vdgmilitaria@yahoo.com
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