Original Item: Only One Available. This is a rare later Victorian era (1880-1902) British Chapeau bras Cocked Fore-and-Aft British officer hat. It is finely decorated with gilt bullion wire thread braid and black ribbon to the front with a fine gilt Queens Crown Victorian button. The hat is constructed of seal or beaver fur and is collapsible. The brim is surrounded in dyed black ostrich feathers.

The interior features a wide black silk sweatband and pleated lining in very good condition. It is retains a very appealing makers marking in the crown that reads:

Pulford & Son
65 St. James's St
London

Overall condition is very good and in an approximate size US 7 1/4 (58cm).

A chapeau bras is a type of hat made to be compressed and carried under the arm without injury. It translates literally as “hat arm.” Such hats were a popular style worn on dress occasions by gentlemen in the 18th century.