A fine and substantial Swiss commemorative paperweight produced for the Eidgenössisches Schützenfest (Federal Shooting Festival) held in Lucerne in 1939, the year marking both the 25th anniversary of the 1914 festival and the eve of the Second World War.
Cast in bronze and mounted on a polished block of variegated green marble, secured with two brass screws. The piece features a high-relief Swiss M1918 steel helmet and bayonet, with the Swiss cross above the date 1914. The surrounding legend reads “EIDGENÖSSISCHES WEHRMANNSTICH SCHÜTZENFEST IN LUZERN 1939” (Federal Marksman’s Shooting Festival in Lucerne 1939), commemorating Switzerland’s national marksmen’s contest — a long-standing patriotic tradition celebrating the citizen-soldier ideal of the Swiss militia system.
These pieces were likely produced as presentation souvenirs or prizes for competitors and dignitaries attending the 1939 event. The combination of the bronze helmet and bayonet motif evokes the defence spirit of 1914, while its revival in 1939 poignantly reflects Switzerland’s mobilisation and preparedness on the threshold of renewed European conflict.
Measurements: Base approximately 10.4 cm × 8.4 cm; total height 10 cm.
*Condition*
Excellent overall, with light age patina to the bronze and minor surface wear to the marble consistent with age. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
