Extremely rare Benito Mussolini's (Il Duce) original trumpet banner. Carried by Il Duce’s personal bodyguard brigade (“Guardia Pretoriana”) during ceremonies & parades starting in April 1926. Features fasces emblem and sword embroidered in gold bullion thread within red silk diamond atop a brown velvet background. Gilt-wire fringe tassels hang from 3 sides, supported by multicolored woven cords. Materials, color, & construction evoke royal/ecclesiastic style.The design of this trumpet banner reflected the pomp and pagentry,of the Holy Roman Empire which Benito Mussolini strove to emulate. Displayed in a private New York collection for many years. (In addition, I've added an image of an Italian fascist breast badge within a shield having similar characteristics of design, color and constuction for comparison purposes. This particular item is not for sale).
