Helmet for the Chevau-Léger de la maison Militaire du Roi - Model 1814

Tall lacquered leather helmet shell made in two parts and assembled in the center. Front visor with green lacquer underneath and gilt trim (one small tear). Back visor also present with some age wear. The front plate is in stamped brass with the original fire gilding and highly polished reliefs. It represents a blast of lightnings, a sunburst in the middle with a silvered "Fleur de Lys" in it center. The Bandeau surounding it has the devise for this small companie "Sensere Gigantes" (The Giants Have Felt It).

On both sides of the helmet shell are gilt brass "palm" motifs rounding towards the front. A set of original and gilt chinscales over leather and silk velvet. 18 scales with a nicely chiseled border alterning between 4 and 3 cut-outs. The endind is composed of two small silver bullion tassels. The Rosace is the stamped out Medusa head type. Overall heighth of the helmet about 16 inches or 40 cm.

The beautiful tall cimier is also of highly gilt stamped brass with a leaf and lightning decor. It is fixed to the helmet with four conicale screws to each side. The Cimier has the original black horse hair mane on top, a rare occurance on its own. The tall gilt brass "porte plumet" on the side. The original lining inside shows some wear and is about half present. It is composed of a thing leather turban with black silk to the center

Overall condition of the helmet is excellent. The gilting is without a doubt in MINT condition, the leather show some age although quite impressive for a 200 year old artifact. For the short history the CHEVAU-LEGER de la Maison Militaire du Roi where only serving for 1814-1816. Upon the return of the king their companie was eliminated for budget reasons. They consisted of approx 37 officers and 200 NCO's with another 200 as reserve. The commanding officer was the Count Charles de Damas.