An authentic officer’s dress sword knot (portepee), likely originating from the Imperial German or Prussian military, dating from the late 19th to early 20th century. It was designed to be affixed to the hilt of a ceremonial sabre and worn as part of a formal officer's uniform, particularly among cavalry or guard regiments.
Crafted in gold bullion-style cord, the piece features:
A thick braided suspension cord with a hand-tied fastening loop
A central woven knot ball (slide) for secure fitting
Two ornately plaited flat discs, displaying traditional interlace patterns
Dual wool or silk tassels, richly twisted and intact
The entire knot is in good condition for its age, showing minor wear and patina consistent with ceremonial use and historical storage. No components are missing, and the original braided structure remains firm and detailed.
This portepee is an excellent example of military craftsmanship from the pre-WWI era and would be a valuable addition to any militaria collection, particularly for collectors of:
Prussian or German Imperial uniforms
19th-century European cavalry regalia
Officer dress accoutrements and sword accessories