Helmet Of The Paris Guard On Horseback, Model 1860–1872, Cavalery Napoleon III Third Republic

Spectacular Model 1860/1872 troop helmet from the Paris Mounted Guard in exceptional condition.
Furthermore, all of its components are original—including the mane. The plume is in the original style but is a contemporary piece.
This helmet, a transitional model, is rare because it was worn by the Republican Guard for only a few years after the end of the Second Empire... until the adoption in 1876 of an entirely new helmet with smaller, more modern dimensions.
This is therefore a Second Empire-era helmet, Model 1860, whose headband was officially changed in 1872 after the fall of the empire: the imperial eagle was then replaced by the coat of arms of the city of Paris, featuring a boat and the motto “Fluctuat Nec Mergitur” (it is tossed by the waves but does not sink). The “Garde de Paris” banner was retained as it had been during the Second Empire.
After 1876, these helmets were permanently phased out within the Republican Guard, and most were “transferred” and “converted” for use by the fire department, notably by replacing the headband and drilling additional holes at the front and center of the crest.
This helmet is untouched and in mint condition.
No oxidation or dent,
It is marked on the back by the famous manufacturer “A. Godillot" as well as the service number of the Republican Guard who wore this helmet.
The brass crest is adorned with gadroons, laurel leaves, and snakes.
The ensemble is topped by a stylized brass "marmouzet" —specific to the Paris Guard—designed to hold a red horsehair plume.
The helmet is complete with its leather-mounted chin straps.
It also features a beautiful mane of black horsehair of approximately 55 cm long (for the visible portion).
Original 1860-model leather linner. The inner surfaces of the neck guard is also covered with leather (the leather covering the visor is missing).
A splendid and rare collector’s item.
Minor signs of wear on the helmet. A few small, barely visible dents on the crest. Some wear to the leather linner.
Total height of the helmet (without the crest): 43 cm approximately.