Original Item: Only One Available. If only this had not been re-purposed! Here is an original French Napolenic Carabinier (Rifleman) brass Cavalry Helmet, that after the end of the Napoleonic Wars in 1815 was de-Napoleonized by having the large “N” removed from the face plate. It originally came with a very large Polar Bear Skin dyed red top crest that very attractively terminated to the front in what appeared to be a suspended ball of fur. This red fitting was also removed when the helmet was re-issued in the later 1800’s for use by Pompier (Firemen) of the French Fire Departments.
The helmet retains part of its original leather liner/sweat band and still comes complete with is intertwined brass wire chin scales mounted on their leather backing. The original Comb is still in place fully embossed with its original floral decorations. A striking helmet even today, original and ready to display!
Pompier (firefighter) etymologically comes from the concept of pumping (water) & refers to the manual pumps that were originally used.