Famous Napoleon Hat To Be Sold For Half A Million Pounds

According to Skynews, the black felt hat is currently on display next to the chateau where France's most famous general lived when he was not leading his troops into battle across Europe.
It is slightly weathered by age and use, even though no one has worn it since it was allegedly given to a cavalry vet by Napoleon himself.

The hat, being sold by Osenat auction house in Fontainebleau, is part of a Napoleonic collection belonging to Monaco's royal family, which is distantly related to the great general.

Of the 120 original hats, 19 have survived and this one is one of only two in private hands.

 

Auctioneer Alexandre Giquello said of Napoleon's style: "He understood at that time that a symbol was powerful ... On the battlefield, his enemies called him the bat because he had the silhouette with that hat, which was the only hat to be worn on the side.

"At that time, the fashion was to wear the hat from front to back. He was unique to have such a look."

In a note to go with the catalogue, Prince Albert II said the family decided to sell the items of the collection as part of the restoration of the palace "rather than see them remain in the shadows".

Also for sale are dozens of medals, decorative keys, documents, a jewelled sword, a Russian caviar spoon and a bronze eagle that once perched atop a battle flag, complete with bullet holes.

Jean-Pierre Osenat, head of the auction house in Fontainbleau, said: "It is an exceptional collection.


Skynews