May 8-10, 2024 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/9/2024
The bicorn hat was popular from the 1790s into the 1840s, though from the 1820s, more as the dress hat for staff and field grade officers. Militia, of course, had their regulations and customs. The term chapeau de bras derives from its ability to be carried conveniently under the arm. This is a very nice example, made of beaver felt with bound edge, with a single broad vertical band of bullion embroidery on the rear and two on the front with a simple brass ball button at the bottom and blackened leather tombstone shaped plate at the top edge fitted with a brass number “1.” A white feather plume is mounted behind the front. CONDITION: Very good overall. The exterior shows good color and no holes or breaks, though the edge binding shows wear. The interior has a full leather sweatband and silk lining that is shredded, but shows a partial Boston maker’s address. This comes with some collector paperwork asserting an early Virginia connection, but maker’s address points to New England.
Item Dimensions: 25" X 16"