WW1 French 74th Infantry Regiment , Battalion Commanders Kepi & Cover

A stunning high quality private purchase French officers Kepi of the 74th Infantry Regiment with four braids for rank of major.
In the early 'Foulard' or 'Saumur' shape this style originated from the late 1880s but was still being worn by older officers as part of the service uniform when France went to war in August 1914. In fine quality red wool cloth the body of the cap is adorned with gold flat rank braid for a Battalion Commander & Hungarian knot to top.Gilt officers chinstrap present as was worn in the field. Both of its gilt chinstrap buttons to sides have flaming grenades embossed for infantry troops. Regimental numbers to front are of the removeable gilt type, these were dropped after WW1. To interior is a black silk lining with officers initals to underside of peak. Black velvet headband sewn to circumference of interior.

The 74th regiment was garrisoned in Rouen ,Elbeuf & Gaillon in 1914 & was involved in the following actions during WW1 Charleroi 1914 , Battle of the Marne , Champagne , 2nd & 3rd Battle of Artois, Verdun 1916 , Aisne 1918 & Flanders... a well fielded Regiment !

Code: 15602