Military Toleware Bicorn Hat Trade Sign - 19th Century


Period: 19th Century

This is a piece of historical folk art, specifically a large military shop display sign designed to catch the eye from the street. It is modelled after a Napoleonic-style bicorn hat (or "chapeau-bras"), which was standard dress for military and naval officers during the late 18th and 19th centuries.

This rare object, from the first quarter of the 19th century, is crafted from toleware (painted or lacquered sheet metal, typically tin or iron), a durable material often used for outdoor signage in the 1800s.

It features a prominent bullion-style cockade and loop on the side, mimicking the gold wire lace and button details found on real military headwear.

The piece displays an authentic, "untouched" original painted finish with a deep reddish-brown or "Napoleonic red" patina. The wear and tear, including minor losses on the underside, surface oxidation and paint loss, is commensurate with its age and long-term use as an outdoor fixture.

The untouched original painted finish is in remarkable condition.

Items like this are highly sought after by collectors of militaria, advertising history, and folk art.

The wall mounting bracket and rum barrel showing in the images are not included. However, the sign comes with a U shaped wall mounting bracket which can be used for display.


Dimensions

Width: 98.00 cm (38.6 in)

Depth: 31.00 cm (12.2 in)

Height: 42.00 cm (16.5 in)

Price: £1150.00 (approx €1346)

Pareglio & Ayres Antiques Interiors, located in Kent UK and with a base in Italy just under an hour from Milan.

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T & Cs

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