These Elastolin Army trumpeters in marching position represent a significant category of German toy figures from the first half of the 20th century. Standing 6.5 cm tall, these figures belong to the standard size of Elastolin military figures manufactured by O. & M. Hausser in Ludwigsburg.

The Hausser company was founded in 1904 by brothers Otto and Max Hausser and developed into one of Germany's most important manufacturers of composition figures. The brand name “Elastolin” was registered in 1926 and designated the unique material from which the figures were made: a composition of casein, chalk, glycerin, and oils molded around a wire frame. This manufacturing technique made the figures more durable than lead soldiers and less prone to damage.

The representation of trumpeters in marching position corresponds to the military tradition of the German Army, where signallers played an indispensable role. Trumpeters had been an integral part of military units since the 17th century and served for acoustic command transmission. In the Reichswehr (1919-1935) and later in the Wehrmacht (1935-1945), trumpeters retained their ceremonial and practical significance, especially during parades, roll calls, and military ceremonies.

The uniform depiction on Elastolin figures of this type typically shows the field uniform of the Army as worn from the 1930s onwards. Painting was done with artisanal quality, using the characteristic colors of field gray for the uniform and the appropriate branch colors for the piping. For infantry units, to which trumpeters typically belonged, this was white.

The condition 2 in the description corresponds to the standard classification of collector's items, where condition 1 represents mint condition and higher numbers indicate increasing signs of wear. A condition 2 suggests a well-preserved figure with possibly slight signs of aging or wear, which is quite normal for toy figures from this era.

The production of Elastolin figures reached its golden age in the 1930s and early 1940s. The Hausser company produced extensive series of military figures depicting all branches, ranks, and activities of the German military. These figures served not only as toys but also as collector's items and were arranged in elaborate dioramas.

During World War II, production became increasingly restricted as raw materials became scarce and manufacturing capacity was needed for war-essential goods. After 1945, production resumed, but the focus increasingly shifted to civilian figures and Wild West themes, as military toys were viewed critically in the postwar period.

From today's perspective, Elastolin military figures represent important contemporary historical documents. They reflect not only the artisanal quality of German toy manufacturing but also the social values and militarization of the prewar period. For collectors, these figures are highly valued for their historical significance, craftsmanship, and attention to detail.

The representation of trumpeters is particularly valuable in Elastolin collections as it documents the diversity of military functions. Besides combat units, musicians and signallers were an integral part of every military formation and contributed to the identity and tradition of the troops.