Angela Merkel's décolleté is no stranger to the spotlight: the Chancellor's choice of a low-cut gown at the opening of the Oslo Opera House last year caused a media sensation across Germany, and indeed, much of the world.

But this time, Angie's cleavage is not on show at the Chancellor's choosing.

A giant mocked-up image of the German leader in a matching purple bra and knickers set has appeared on Berlin's main shopping drag, the "Ku'damm."

Joining Merkel in their briefs are, among others, Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Family Affairs Minister Ursula von der Leyen and Greens co-leader Cem Oezdemir.

"We'll do anything to stimulate the economy," reads the caption underneath.

The picture forms part of an advertising campaign for an underwear company, which is promising customers a five euro discount on new undies if they trade in their old ones - a spin-off from the German government's scheme for trading in old cars.