Original French First Indochina War Era TAP 47/56 Lizard Camouflage Parachute Smock – Rare Unissued Condition, Not Israeli Marked Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. After the Second World War, the French Army began rebuilding and created a new uniform. This uniform included a “Lizard Pattern” camouflage, which was used to make a specific jump smock and trousers for parachute troops. The design of the smock and the camouflage pattern were influenced by the American jump smocks and British Denison smocks worn during WW2. The smock underwent several changes over the following decade, with the 1956 pattern being the example in question, hence “47/56”.

The smock is made from herringbone twill with a camouflaged pattern screen-printed onto it. The jacket features four pockets on the front, each with three press studs to the flap. Six more male press studs under the flap allow the pockets to be fastened in two positions. The left breast pocket has a horizontal ‘Elless’ branded zipper along with a patch that can hold pens and pencils. A high-quality ‘Elless’ brand brass zipper fastens the front with a locking puller. A buttoning fly front fastens over this, and a drawstring is located along the bottom edge. Metal eyelets are fitted to the armpits to aid in ventilation, and buttons are fitted around the collar for attaching a hood.

Inside the smock is an internal pocket that fastens with a button. The original markings, including the manufacturer’s name ‘J. Pauwels & Co Ltd’ of Merville, are still present to the interior.

The smock is cut in a large and loose manner, like all smocks. This is because they are worn as an outer layer and are designed to offer as much free movement as possible, particularly across the chest and shoulders. When laid flat, the smock measures –

. It has small flaws commensurate with age, so please take time to study the pictures before purchasing, and bear in mind that this is a pre-worn combat jacket. The overall condition of the smock is near excellent, showing no signs of having ever been field worn.

Overall, this smock is a fantastic example of this sought-after pattern and would make a great addition to any collection.

Approximate Measurements:
Collar to shoulder: 11″
Shoulder to sleeve: 23”
Shoulder to shoulder: 21”
Chest width: 31″
Waist width: 25″
Hip width: 25″
Front length: 31″