WW1 French 'Battle of the Marne' 74th Inf.Regt M1884 Kepi & M1879 Tunic- 1914

A WW1 French infantry other ranks kepi of the 74th infantry division with matching regimentally numbered infantry tunic of the M1879 pattern.
This uniform although originating from the 1880 period was the pattern still being worn during the early frontier battles of 1914 against the invading German army. The kepi is a wonderful battle worn 'been there ' piece still encrusted with sweat & dirt to inside & out with lining showing heavy wear. The front red & blue regimental number patch is crudely handstitched to the kepi as they all were & totally original to it. This is well seated into the cloth of the body with commensurate wear to the rest of the piece & stitching that is clearly very old. A faint inspection mark can be seen underneath the name flap to crown. Tunic itself has suffered from moth attack ( See images ) but with all flaming grenade embossed brass buttons intact & equipment loop to side still present. This is more likely to be a private purchase example for best dress with a black satin type lining as opposed to the rougher cheesecloth of general issue. Both being of matching regiment & having come together I offer them uncleaned & as they came to me.

As would be surmised this regiment fought in the First Battle of the Marne 1914 , Artois 1915 , Verdun in 1916 & Roulers in 1918.

Code: 14173