France, Second Empire. A 3rd Regiment of Cuirassiers Steel Cuirass, 1864

The 3e Régiment de Cuirassiers was one of France’s classic heavy cavalry regiments, with a lineage reaching back to the 17th century. By the time of the Second French Empire, it was a prestigious armored cavalry unit serving under Napoleon III.

Offered is a rare matching set of body armour, in bronzed steel (magnetic), in the typical period style and shape consisting of a concave front plate with central ridge and stylized rivets on the parameter.  At centre is a clear strike point. Matching back plate is also in steel with intact straps with original leather, as well as brass chain decor. Left strap is missing end leather pull tab. At interior bottom of plate, as is common, is the engraved details stating  "16e Impérial de Johann Kien 1864 3e Cuirassiers ’Argent N° 573" - which denotes “16e Impérial” = 16th Imperial (lot, workshop batch, or inspection series), maker or contractor, year of manufacture: 1864, 3rd Regiment of Cuirassiers, Silvered finish, “No 573” Rack number / issue number / regimental inventory number.

The set has overall surface rust, measures 38 cm (w) x 44 cm (h) and is a true survivor of the Franco-Prussian war. Overall, remains fine. 

Footnote: The 3rd Regiment of Cuirassiers notably served in the Franco-Prussian War (1870). This was the regiment’s most dramatic Second Empire action. French cuirassiers, including the 3rd, participated in cavalry charges during battles including Wörth (Fröschwiller) & Sedan.