HELMET OF THE KING'S GUARDS OF THE KING'S MILITARY HOUSEHOLD, MODEL 1820 (second model), SECOND RESTORATION (1820-1830).
Straight helmet, composed of two fitted shells soldered with tin on silver-plated copper, darkened with age to a twentieth, pierced with ventilation holes, the base of the helmet protruding to form a gutter (height of the helmet approximately 9.5 cm).
Front plate (height approximately 19 cm, width approximately 26 cm) in gilded and stamped brass (matte and darkened gold), attached to the helmet by six screws, embossed with a radiant sun, in the architectural design, emerging from a cloud where a ribbon bearing the motto "NEC PLURIBUS IMPAR" (Superior to all - motto of Louis XIV) is placed, at the center is fastened a motif in embossed brass of the face of the sun (height 4.3 cm, width 4.3 cm).
Turban in thick leather covered with black-dyed calfskin (height 7.5 cm).
Visor 6.5 cm wide and neck guard (approximately 5 cm) covered in calfskin and edged with a gilded brass wire folded over the outer edge.
Gilded brass chin scales composed of a chin strap in soft leather covered with black silk velvet (width 3.9 cm), covered with two chains made of interlaced rings (diameter of rings 2 cm); of an oval rosette embossed with a lion's head (height 5 cm, width 4.7 cm).
Gilded brass plume holder of tubular shape slightly decreasing towards the bottom (height 4.9 cm).
Crest in silver-plated copper (height 11.5 cm). The mask (width 4.5 cm) and the two flaps are embossed in relief with a row of feathers with a row of fleur-de-lis at the base (the tops of the fleur-de-lis are unembossed, as is often the case on the majority of authentic helmets, modification made in 1830 upon the departure of King Charles X from the throne). The mask and each flap are marked by three hallmarks: that of the silversmith "F * F", "DOUBLÉ" for the silver-plated work guarantee, and the proof mark "20°".
Black horsehair mane mounted in a metal core.
Interior liner of the first type composed of a black leather headband with the upper part in beige cloth.
In very good condition, the helmet and metal parts are without defects, the calfskin is worn in places, the interior liner is worn.
Officer helmets are extremely rare, differing from troop helmets either by a bear fur crest or by chin scales with engraved rings.
France.
Second Restoration (1820-1830).
PROVENANCE: Former André THÉLOT collection.
NOTE: The second model of the King's Guards helmets is much rarer to find than the first model from 1814.
Reference :
6473