Original French WWI Adrian Pattern Brass Fire Helmet Shell from Monthou-sur-Bièvre – Casque de Pompier Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a fine complete example of an all original French brass Casque de Pompier (fire helmet) shell, designed in the style of the legendary Adrian helmet pattern. This style of helmet was used during the WWI era by France and many other countries, and also used into WWII, after which it was replaced by more modern designs. The helmet shell comes complete with brass helmet plate of castle over a “flaming bomb” inside shield, surrounded by oak leaf branches on one side and laurel leaves on the other. At the top, partly under the top comb, is a scroll banner that reads SAPEUR POMPIERS MONTHOU S/ BIEVRE. This translates to “Firefighters Monthou-sur-Bièvre”, or more correctly, “Monthou-sur-Bièvre Fire Brigade.” 

The Helmet shell is in good condition, though the liner and chin strap are completely missing. Also the small socket on the left side for a hackle or cockade is missing, and there is definitely deformation to the top comb, which has caused the top trim to separate away towards the rear. This definitely looks like a helmet that saw actual service.

These helmets were issued to the “Sapeurs Pompiers”. The fire service in France is known as Sapeurs-pompiers. Pompier (firefighter) etymologically comes from the concept of pumping (water) & refers to the manual pumps that were originally used. Sapeur means “sapper” & refers to the 1st official firefighting unit created by Napoleon I which was part of the military engineering arm.

A fine example of a classic fire helmet shell dating from as early as the Victorian era and up through the Great War. Most attractive and ready to display!