Item Description
Original Item: Only One Available. Always considered one of the most romantic styles of Cavalry Helmets, is this, the Czapka. The word itself is Polish / Belorussian, and basically means "cap". This style is perhaps best known to English speakers as a word for the 19th-century Polish cavalry headgear, consisting of a high, four-pointed cap with regimental insignia on the front (full name in Polish: czapka rogatywka, initially: konfederatka) to which feathers or rosettes were sometimes added.
The helmet style was then adopted by various other European cavalry units, including the Uhlan Cavalry units of the Kingdom of Bavaria. The term Uhlan itself was originally used for Polish-Lithuanian light cavalry units, so they borrowed the term along with the cap. The distinctive shape, maroon fabric, chin scales, and everything else make these a jewel in any collection.
This helmet features a silvered brass wappen (front plate) with the Bavarian coat of arms, over the kingdom's motto, In Treue Fest, German for "steadfast in loyalty." This looks to have been added closer to the WWI period to conform with the uniform standards of the time, and does not match the rest of the helmet with regards to patina.
The helmet is constructed of a boiled leather body, much like a pickelhaube, however the top is layered fabric, reinforced with internal boning, probably metal, wood, or both. This allows it to hold the square top in place, which is the distinguishing feature of all Czapkas.
Condition is good, though it does show age. The original nickel silver chin scales are in good condition, and look great. A very rare helmet, the first that we have seen, ready to add to your collection!
- This product is available for international shipping.
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