Shako Troop Of The 3rd Line Or Hussar, Model 1806/1810

The shako is an emblematic element of the French military uniform under the Empire. This headgear, adopted at the beginning of the 19th century, combines elegance and functionality, offering moderate protection while reinforcing the soldier's martial appearance. Description of the model: This troop shako of the 3rd line infantry regiment or hussars, made between 1806 and 1810, has all the characteristics of a military headgear of the Napoleonic era. Black felt body, forming a truncated cone structure 19 cm high. Waxed cowhide crown, reinforced by a cardboard bearing a "CYZ" marking, a rare element and characteristic of certain specific productions. 3.5 cm wide folded leather brim, ensuring a good hold of the shako. 2.5 cm wide bourdalou (leather strip sewn to the base), with a brass buckle at the back and its 2.6 cm pin on a gusset, used to adjust the headdress. 6 cm visor, typical of the models from 1806.Distinctive ornaments and attributes This shako features brass elements characteristic of the 1806 model:A stamped brass front plate displaying the number 3, measuring 11 cm x 11 cm.An imperial leather cockade painted in three colors, 7 cm in diameter, fixed by staples and enhanced with a gusset to accommodate a pompom.A scarlet pompom, 6.7 cm in diameter, mounted on an oxidized tinned wire, giving a colorful note to the whole.Two brass chinstraps, composed of 16 alternating scales cut into two or three festoons, mounted on a double thickness of leather sheepskin. They are attached to the shako via two rosettes stamped with a star, each measuring 4.5cm in diameter.Interior and condition: The interior of the shako features a large 14cm wolf tooth headdress, a detail that demonstrates the care taken in the manufacture of this headgear.This model has never been restored, thus preserving its authenticity. Only the laces have been replaced.Hypothesis on the origin of this shako: Although this shako is attributed to the 3rd Line Infantry Regiment, certain finishing elements, notably the quality of manufacture and the chinstraps, suggest that it could rather belong to a hussar non-commissioned officer. However, there is no definitive proof to decide.This shako of the 1806/1810 model is a remarkable witness to the Napoleonic era. Its exceptional state of preservation and its characteristic attributes make it a rare collector's item, perfectly illustrating the evolution of military uniforms under the Empire.