The Italian M29 camouflage, also known as *Telo Mimetico Modello 1929*, holds the distinction of being the **first mass-produced military camouflage pattern in history**. Introduced by the Italian Royal Army (*Regio Esercito*) in 1929, it was originally used for shelter halves (*teli mimetici*), which could be combined to form tents or worn as ponchos. The pattern featured an abstract, brushstroke-like design in shades of brown, green, and ochre, optimized for concealment in the varied Italian terrain.
Although it began as a fabric for shelters, during World War II the Italians started using the camo for uniforms, especially among elite units like paratroopers and special forces. The Germans even repurposed captured stocks of the M29 camouflage for use by Waffen-SS units after Italy’s 1943 armistice. The pattern remained in limited use after the war, influencing later camouflage developments both in Italy and abroad. Today, the M29 is highly valued among collectors for its historical significance and pioneering role in the evolution of military camouflage.
