November 7-8, 2018 Edged Weapons, Armor, & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/7/2018
Gilt metal helmet of the bodyguard nearest to the King or Queen of England from the reign of Queen Victoria. Gilted brass shell heavily adorned with acanthus leaf scrolling to front, sides and rear, finished with fire-gilded gold plating. The helmet plate consists of the Queen's crown over a badge of the Royal Order of the Garter with the motto "Honi Soit Qui Mal Y Pense" on a silver star bordered on the sides with oak leaves and acorns. Atop the helmet, a plume holder with a leaf base and brass rod plume pin to which are fastened swan feathers. The rosettes of large lion heads fasten chinscales with a four-fingered, diminishing width, terminating at the fastening ends with lion paws. Accompanying the helmet is a ERII Household Cavalry officer's helmet plate in excellent condition. Also accompanying the helmet is a finely constructed showcase which measures 14-3/4" by 17" by 28" tall. It is the buyer's prerogative to have this showcase shipped with the helmet. The Honourable Corps of Gentlemen at Arms was given the title by King William IV in 1834, but were founded in 1509 by Henry VIII, originally as a mounted corps. Consisting of five titular officers and 27 gentlemen, it is their duty to attend the sovereign at most state occasions. Members of the corps are distinguished retired military officers, some of whom were wearer's of the Victoria Cross, Britain's highest military decoration for heroism in combat. CONDITION: Excellent. Helmet has one chinscale detached. Partial leather interior lining, visor undersides lined with leather. Helmet exhibits most of its original fire gilt finish and is without dents or damage. From the Ray Bentley Collection.
This is not a standard shippable item and will require 3rd party shipping or pickup arrangements to be made.
Item Dimensions: Case: 20 - 1/4" x 18 - 1/4" x 28 - 1/4".