Bavaria, Kingdom. An Officer’s Pickelhaube

(Bayern Pickelhaube für einen Offizier). A refurbished example Bavarian Officers Pickelhaube, constructed of a pressed black leather shell. The crown is topped by a cruciform brass plate which is secured in position with four domed rivets. Emanating from the centre of the plate is a ribbed brass spike, in turn extending from a shaft featuring six ventilation holes. A brass bar extends from the back of the plate and terminates at the rim. Riveted to the peak is a brass plate featuring a central Bavarian national emblem, flanked by lions rampant, topped by a crown, and situated above a banner bearing an inscription of “IN TREUE FEST” (“STEADFAST IN LOYALTY”), measuring 15 cm (w) x 9 cm (h). Brass studs flank the sides and retain a chinstrap constructed of a blackened leather base topped by cascading brass scales, fastening in plate at the centre with a single stud. Mis-matched rosettes are situated below the studs, and are executed in Imperial tri-colours and Bavarian national colours. A replacement visor is securely riveted to the front, and consists of a custom-fitted brass plate which blends seamlessly with the exterior features. An original blackened leather neck guard completes the exterior features. A scalloped brown leather sweatband surrounds the interior, while a two-piece retractable off-white satin liner encompasses the crown. Unmarked, the Pickelhaube measures approximately 19.5 cm (w) x 24 cm (l) x 24.5 cm (h) (inclusive of spike). Issues consistent with age and modification are evidence, and include the remnants of the original blackened leather visor visible near the rosettes, distortion of the shell consequent to the attachment of the metal visor, cracking throughout the shell, and moderate soiling and material fatigue throughout the interior.