WW1 Shoulder straps and patches Russian Imperial Army

The shoulder straps and patches worn by the Russian Imperial Army during World War I were important for identifying rank, branch of service, and regimental affiliation. Here’s an overview of their design and function:

For Enlisted Soldiers:

• Design: The shoulder straps were usually plain and simple for enlisted men, typically made of fabric matching the color of the uniform (green or khaki for infantry, for example). The straps had a metallic button or plate with an insignia, such as an eagle or a crown.
• Branch Identification: The piping (the colored stripe running along the edge of the shoulder strap) was used to denote the branch of service. For instance:
  • Red piping for artillery.
  • Yellow piping for infantry.
  • Blue piping for cavalry.

For Officers:

• Design: Officers had more elaborate shoulder straps, often adorned with gold or silver cords, braiding, and additional insignia.
• Rank Insignia: The epaulette’s design was more detailed, with the use of stars, crowns, or other symbols to indicate the officer's rank. Higher-ranking officers wore shoulder straps with more gold or silver decorations.
• Branch Identification: Officers' epaulettes often featured the same piping colors as enlisted soldiers to denote their branch, but with more distinction through additional ornamentation and cords.

Colors and Symbols:

• Infantry: Often had shoulder straps with yellow piping, and the insignia would often feature a brass button with the Russian imperial eagle.
• Artillery: Red piping was common for artillery units, with the shoulder strap having additional metallic detailing or a button with the crown or imperial eagle.
• Cavalry: Blue piping denoted cavalry units. Their shoulder straps might also feature a more elaborate design, with additional decoration for the officers.
• Guard Units: Elite regiments like the Imperial Guard had more elaborate epaulets with additional gold or silver detailing to signify their prestigious status.
• Cossacks: Cossack soldiers had a distinctive design in terms of shoulder straps, with their epaulettes often being simpler but distinguished by different piping colors and additional symbols, such as the Cossack star or crossed sabers.