OFFICER’S HELMET OF THE KING’S GENDARMES. Restored during the reign...

OFFICER’S HELMET OF THE KING’S GENDARMES. Restored during the reign of Louis XVIII, circa 1814–1815. Two-piece helmet made of hot-molded black leather, sewn lengthwise. Visor and neck flap in black patent leather. The visor, slightly pointed at its center, is edged with a gilded brass band secured by rivets; its reverse side is waxed green. The neck flap is black and waxed on the inside. Extensive trim of stamped and gilded brass. A front plate of overgilded brass, embossed with the arms of France beneath a royal crown, set against a background of smoke and lightning. In its lower section, a large flaming thunderbolt surmounts a cartouche bearing the motto of the Gendarmes of the Guard: “QUO JUBET IRATUS JUPITER” (Wherever the angry Jupiter commands). On either side of the helmet, gilded brass appliqués depicting flaming bolts of lightning from which flashes of lightning emerge. The crest is made of stamped and overgilded brass, decorated with coffers, foliage, and lightning motifs, tapering toward the back. It is trimmed with a substantial black horsehair tassel. Chin straps with scalloped gilded brass scales, mounted on leather lined with black velvet, formerly re-gilded. Side rosettes adorned with a relief motif. Gilded brass plume holder, tubular in shape with a square cross-section. Inner lining consisting of a black leather headband and sewn fabric. The helmet is accompanied by an old handwritten label bearing the inscription: “Helmet of the officers of King Louis XVIII’s Gendarmes, formerly owned by Mr. Eugène du Plessis, acquirer of Trois-Fontaines.” Total height: approximately 34 cm. In good overall condition considering its age. One rivet from the visor band is missing. The inner leather headband is worn and shows signs of wear and tear. Appraisal: Emmanuel Delgado