Bavaria, Kingdom. A Rare Model 1868 Raupenhelm for Reserve Infantry Officer, by Christian Block

(Bayern Raupenhelm Modell 1868 für einen Reserve-Offizier der Infanterie). A rare and exceptionally well-preserved Model 1868 Raupenhelm issued to an Officer of the Bavarian Reserve Infantry, constructed of a boiled and lacquered black leather shell. Riveted to the crown is a striking bearskin comb or “caterpillar” which extends from the peak to the lower back edge. Affixed to the peak is a gilded bronze plate measuring 9 cm (w) x 10 cm (h), fully vaulted to fit seamlessly across the shell. The shell is flanked by two gilded brass lion heads executed in high relief, each accommodating a loop in their mouths, in turn retaining a period original two-piece black leather chinstrap which fastens together with a functional brass buckle meeting an array of eyelets carefully perforated into the opposite end. Inserted into the upper edge of the left-side lion head is a silvered and blue painted Reserve cockade. Completing the exterior features are protruding and downward-pointing visors emanating from both the front and back, with the former featuring a gilded brass reinforcement riveted in place across the rim. The interior is partially encompassed by a black leather liner which culminates in eight fingers, each perforated at the top with an eyelet for the accommodation of a drawstring. The crown retains a fully-intact manufacturer’s label reading “CHRISTIAN BLOCK, KGL. HOF. GÜRTLER, MÜNCHEN”, indicating production by a noted manufacturer of Bavarian Reserve Infantry headgear. The Raupenhelm measures approximately 17.5 cm (w) x 28 cm (l) x 16 cm (h) (exclusive of comb). Minor issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include some scratching to the outer shell and moderate deterioration of the liner resulting in the loss of the drawstring. A striking and untouched example demonstrating exceptional quality of construction, this rare example remains in an extremely fine condition.