Original French WWI Rare First Model Colonial Troops (Tiraullieurs) Dark Blue Tunic – Only Worn For 1 Year Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a fantastic early WWI uniform for the French Colonial Troops, also known as a Tirailleur. A tirailleur, in the Napoleonic era, was a type of light infantry trained to skirmish ahead of the main columns. Later, the term “tirailleur” was used by the French Army as a designation for indigenous infantry recruited in the French colonial territories during the 19th and 20th centuries, or for metropolitan units serving in a light infantry role.

Upon visual inspection, it can be determined that the uniform is in relatively good condition given its rarity. However, there are a few key factors that have had a detrimental effect on its overall state. One of the most noticeable issues is the heavy fading that can be observed throughout the fabric. Additionally, there are numerous areas where moth damage has left holes and frayed edges. Despite this, all of the buttons are still present and attached to the uniform. Unfortunately, the inner lining has suffered from deterioration and there are stains present, which are both telltale signs that this uniform has been worn on multiple occasions.

Until 1914 the Algerian and Tunisian tirailleurs wore zouave style uniforms of light blue with yellow braiding (see photographs on this page). White turbans (for parade), red fezzes and sashes were worn with this “tenue orientale”. A white field dress of similar loose cut was worn for North African campaigning and in France during the early months of World War I. They adopted a more practical khaki uniform from 1915 onwards, in common with the other units of the (North African) 19th Military District. The West African and Madagascan tirailleurs wore a dark blue parade dress with red sash and fez while the Indochinese regiments wore an indigenous style of blue, white or khaki uniform with a flat “salacco” headdress. Khaki had been widely worn as a hot-weather field dress in Indo-China and Africa during the years before the outbreak of World War I and thereafter became the norm. The North African tirailleurs however resumed their colourful full dress uniforms between 1927 and 1939 to assist recruitment. After World War II they were retained until the present day for wear by the noubas (regimental bands).

This is a lovely example and not too many are left on the market! Comes ready to display!

Approximate Measurements:
Collar to shoulder: 9.5″
Shoulder to sleeve: 23.5”
Shoulder to shoulder: 14”
Chest width: 19″
Waist width: 20″
Hip width: 21″
Front length: 31″