Estonian First Republic 1920-1940 Firefighter breast badge
For firefighter from the region of Viljandi.
A beautiful and very hard to find badge.
These badges rarely sell for less than 150 euros in Estonia.
The crest have blue, green and black enamel.
The badge is made of silver washed brass.
Excellent condition, no damages.
The width is 80 mm.
Maker marked "Roman Tavast, Talinn"
Read more below and note his tragic ending....
Roman Tavast (1895–1942) was a prominent Estonian goldsmith, artist, and entrepreneur who founded the most famous company for the production of badges, medals, and insignias in Estonian history.
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The Founding (1923): After studying engraving and jewelry-making, Tavast founded his company, VMT Roman Tavast, in Tallinn in 1923. It quickly grew to become the premier workshop in Estonia for official state decorations, military insignia, sports medals, school rings, and service badges (including those for the fire brigade and air force).
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Exceptional Quality: The company became renowned for its high-end craftsmanship, intricate metalwork, and beautiful hot-enamel detailing. Tavast personally designed and manufactured many of Estonia’s highest state honors, such as the Order of the Cross of the Eagle and the Order of the White Star.
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Tragic Fate: Following the Soviet occupation of Estonia in 1940, his successful factory was nationalized. In June 1941, Roman Tavast was arrested and deported by Soviet authorities to a Siberian labor camp, where he was executed in 1942.
