The Italian M29 material was the first printed camouflage material introduced for military use. It continued in various similar forms until 1990. The camouflage pattern was used for the rain poncho /tent half as here and extensively used in WW2 by the Italian Army. The item doubled as a rain cape featuring a hole for the head with collar and could also be employed with poles as part of a shelter. Items in this camouflage pattern were adopted for use by the German Waffen SS after the surrender of Italy in both the form of original uniform items and the employment of unused cloth stocks. Photographs apparently show their use in NW Europe and Italy.
Closely patterned on the WW2 item this ex Italian Army item is in excellent condition,probably unused with one or two storage marks which I have tried to picture. All fastenings , pole eyelets and collar buttons are present and in good condition. The cape measures approximately 180cms x 180cms, is patterned on one side only and probably dates from the early 1950s. With this item comes 2 black leather straps which secure it when rolled up .
Likely to be of interest to re enactors and collectors alike this is a rare and interesting item.