Imperial Silver Trophy "Kiel–Travemünde 1898" – Lazarus Posen, Wilhelm II., Yacht Iduna

Imperial Provenance & Context

This exceptional silver trophy vessel in the style of a 16th-century drinking cup is an outstanding example of imperial art of representation and a rare relic of the Kiel Week 1898. The slightly conical cylinder with a matching lid is hallmarked on the rim with the mark of Lazarus Posen, Frankfurt am Main, and is made of 800 silver – a clear indication of the high quality of the workmanship. Characteristic features are the organic-looking "air bubble ornaments" hammered into the silver, complemented by fine chasing and engravings, which give the piece its particular artisanal distinction.

Decor, Symbolism & Engravings

On the front, there are two crossed flags: the Standard of Kaiser Wilhelm II and the pennant of the Kiel Yacht Club – a powerful symbol of the connection between imperial power, maritime tradition, and the significance of Kiel Week as a major social event of the German Empire. Beneath this is the engraved inscription: "Kiel – Travemünde 1. Juli 1898". On the base of the cup, there is also the engraved monogram "WR" beneath the Imperial crown – an unmistakable sign for Wilhelm Rex, the last German Emperor. Both the lid and the cup are gilded on the inside, as was typical for high-quality representative silver works of the late 19th century.

Regatta & Yacht Iduna

The Kaiser donated this trophy on the occasion of the Kiel Week 1898 to honor the winner of the prestigious Kiel–Travemünde sailing regatta. It is historically documented that the regatta was won by the sailing yacht "Iduna" – the yacht of Kaiserin Auguste Victoria. The Iduna was an American special class yacht (Yampa), which Wilhelm II acquired in 1898 and gifted to his wife. The ship was in the possession of the Imperial House for only a short time. Thus, a trophy donated by the Imperial House symbolically returned to the Imperial House – a historical coincidence of particular appeal.

Contemporary depictions of the Iduna are extremely rare and are found almost exclusively in regatta reports of the Kiel Week 1898, in maritime illustrations, or on commemorative objects. This makes the trophy not only a valuable artisanal object, but also one of the few tangible sources regarding the history of this short-lived imperial yacht.

Collector's Relevance & Significance

An outstanding collector's item for enthusiasts of imperial silver, Prussian memorabilia, maritime history, and objects from the personal circle of Kaiser Wilhelm II.

Provenance: Christie's, Silver, Porcelain and Glass from the Prussian Collection, London 2002, p. 282.