Helmet And Breastplate Of A Cuirassier Officer Of The Third Republic

Complete helmet and plume of a Third Republic cuirassier officer, with its carrying case and padding. This 1874 model cuirassier helmet, worn by troops and officers of the French cavalry during the Third Republic, consists of a stamped steel shell. The copper headband, stamped with a flaming grenade encircled by laurel leaves, is attached to the shell. The copper crest is surmounted by a stamped mask of a Medusa head in relief, with a covering representing the continuation of Medusa's hair. The plume, made of horsehair dyed black for enlisted men, is approximately 80cm long. The stamped copper plume holder, attached obliquely to the shell, is adorned with a scarlet rooster feather plume. The chin straps are made of copper scales covering the leather. The interior of the helmet is leather and in used condition. More photos available. Request. Light cuirass in chromed steel. The breastplate and backplate are adorned with six rivets. Each of the two shoulder straps has a black cowhide body, fitted with two brass chains; the body terminates in a rectangular buttonhole plate molded with sandblasted foliage leaves and a heart-shaped leather tip; the strap holder is brass, the chain plates are covered by a lion's head. Padded vest for a cuirass officer's cuirass. In red canvas entirely covered with diamond-shaped stitching, closing straight down the front with a tab extending over the right shoulder and onto the right side of the waistband, by means of six red buttons. It is edged at the collar, armholes, and lower part with rope rolls covered in cloth. Two very small snags on the lower part of the right armhole. Good condition, never cleaned. TRANSPORT BOX: Rectangular in shape, made of wood covered with dark brown paper, with hinges and a brass handle, and lined with ivory chamois leather. Includes a quill and horsehair comb case inside. Length 37 cm, width 33 cm, height 23 cm.