French M1855 Helmet

The Sapeurs-Pompiers helmet model 1855 from the Second Empire is an iconic copper headdress, recognizable by its imperial symbolism and the inscription of the municipality (such as "Monsures") on the front plate.

Design and Features

According to historical expert descriptions, the helmet consists of the following components:

• Material: The bowl (bomb), comb, and peak are made entirely of polished brass.
• Imperial Plate: The obverse features a stamped plate with the imperial eagle of Napoleon III, often against a background of sunbeams. A ribbon below the eagle reads: "Sapeurs Pompiers de Monsures."
• Crest (Cimier): A high comb decorated with lateral fluting, often featuring a flaming grenade.
• Chinstraps: Usually made of leather, covered with movable copper scales, attached to the sides with rosettes. Historical Context
• Period: Produced during the Second French Empire (1852–1870) under the reign of Napoleon III.
• Adaptations: After the fall of the Empire in 1870, many of these helmets were modified after 1872. The imperial eagle was often removed or replaced by republican symbols to comply with the standards of the Third Republic.
• Function: The high crest served to deflect falling debris, while the brass offered a good balance between strength and weight for the firefighters.

The "de Monsures" version is a specific local variation for the fire department of this village in the Somme department.