Antique Sapper and Firefighter Helmet from the City of Paris. Model 1855/72

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Very Rare Antique Sapeur-Pompier Helmet from the City of Paris. Model 1855/72. France, 19th Century

Superb Sapeur-Pompier helmet from the City of Paris, Model 1855/72, manufactured in France in the 19th century and in excellent condition. The helmet belonged to a member of the French military corps of Sapeurs-Pompiers (Sappers-Firefighters), which was responsible at the time for the work currently performed by civilian firefighters. It was in 1831 that the country established that French municipalities could use army militias to fight fires. By 1875, the French government had issued a decree to regulate the duties and status of the Sapeurs-Pompiers.

The helmet shown in the images is made of brass and consists of several pieces joined together with rivets. On the front, we can see a beautiful embossed detail featuring the coat of arms of the city of Paris and the inscription SAPEURS POMPIERS DE PARIS. The coat of arms is flanked on both sides by wreaths: one of laurel on the left and one of oak on the right. At the top, the helmet is crowned by a large, striking crest, with a front volute and classic friezes on the sides. The crest bears a small, old repair that is not very noticeable.

On the right side of the helmet (as viewed from the front) there is a brass mount with a black plume. It consists of a thick tuft of natural horsehair, original to the period. The back of the helmet is finished with a rear visor; the serial number 4737 is engraved on it. Above the number, slightly higher up, we can see the inscription J. F. GOUÉRIE ET CIE, the name of the company that manufactured the helmet.

This spectacular antique Paris City Fire Sapper helmet, model 1855/72, will be a standout piece in any fine collection of historical and military antiques.