Bidspirit auction | A FRENCH FIRST EMPIRE NAPOLEONIC

A FRENCH FIRST EMPIRE NAPOLEONIC MODEL 1810 CUIRASSIER HELMET, OTHER RANKS, FRANCE, CIRCA 1810–1815 - Constructed with a steel skull formerly blackened, fitted with a high crested brass comb embossed with classical palmette and anthemion ornament and terminating in a forward Medusa mask and rear foliate finial. The helmet is fitted with a brass-bound front visor and rear neck guard, and retains its original brass scalloped chin scales secured by circular rosettes. A black horsehair mane or plume issues from the rear of the crest, originally serving both decorative and protective functions. The interior is fitted with a period leather liner and suspension straps consistent with line cavalry equipment of the Napoleonic Wars. The overall form conforms to the regulation Model 1810 pattern worn by cuirassiers and allied heavy cavalry units during the later campaigns of the First Empire, combining martial functionality with the iconic neoclassical aesthetic of Napoleonic military design. Please make all inquiries before bidding. All lots are sold ”as-is”, refer to our T&C. Helios Auctions offers in-house shipping. In case we can not accommodate a shipping request, a list of additional shippers will be provided. Dimensions: H: 10 5/8 in., (27 cm.) Condition: Very good for the age. The hair is well preserved. Leather is slightly dried out, but all appears to be intact. The brass crest is slightly dented in places. Lacking the top-mounted decoration. The chin strap appears to retain all of its scales. Feather plume missing from the crest.