Garde Du Corps Helmet

Rikkn · 3rd December 2021, 07:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by midelburgo

Now you have to grow a moustache.

Got that nailed !!

asomotif · 3rd December 2021, 11:00 PM

asomotif · 3rd December 2021, 11:19 PM

What an impressive piece. I wish I had such acquaintances

I would not do a "deep"cleaning. I sort of like the patina on the helmet bowl.

The helmet plate looks like it has some (white) residue of brass polish.
I would start to remove that with a toothbrush and some soft soap.

The side posts and kokarde have some oxidation that I would also start to try and remove with a toothbrush and some soap.

The liner is probably original. Officers helmets have these types of liners.

Best regards,
Willem

Victrix · 4th December 2021, 08:56 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rikkn

Got that nailed !!

Splendid! You may want to use some of this for added effect.

Victrix · 4th December 2021, 09:06 AM

With regards to the green residue on the helmet, unless I am mistaken, it’s brass oxidation and best removed for preservation of the item. In the past I have used white spirit on topz to remove the oxidation, using softer materials like wooden tooth picks and plastic disposable spoon on the harder brass to avoid marks. Then I used Brasso to polish the area gently to remove any remains of oxidation. Finally I applied some renaissance wax on the afflicted areas in the hope that it would prevent re-oxidation by restricting contact with oxygen.

Will M · 4th December 2021, 03:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rikkn

Got that nailed !!

Just sign on the dotted line and they'll get you kitted out in full attire.

Wonderful find and a nice original piece. I agree with doing as little as necessary to conserve it. Once things are polished bright people question authenticity.

kronckew · 7th December 2021, 11:18 AM

I hope that eagle top is replaced by something more practical in battle, like a spike (as in a picklhaube). I wondered about that wingnut & its stud too. It's an owie in waiting. Maybe you can wear a helmet under the helmet?

AHorsa · 8th December 2021, 12:22 AM

This is a wonderful parade helmet. Taking into account its value, I wouldn't do anything to it if I was not well known to conservation. I think the best option is to bring it to a good restorer. Would be a bit pitty if this fabolous piece of history got damaged by wrong treatment.

Kind regards and congrats to that piece
Andreas

Rikkn · 8th December 2021, 02:11 AM

A good restorer would be a good idea. Any suggestions for one in the states ?

3rd December 2021, 11:00 PM	#2
asomotif Member Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: The Netherlands Posts: 2,228

3rd December 2021, 11:19 PM	#3
asomotif Member Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: The Netherlands Posts: 2,228	What an impressive piece. I wish I had such acquaintances I would not do a "deep"cleaning. I sort of like the patina on the helmet bowl. The helmet plate looks like it has some (white) residue of brass polish. I would start to remove that with a toothbrush and some soft soap. The side posts and kokarde have some oxidation that I would also start to try and remove with a toothbrush and some soap. The liner is probably original. Officers helmets have these types of liners. Best regards, Willem

4th December 2021, 09:06 AM	#5
Victrix Member Join Date: Apr 2017 Location: Sweden Posts: 755	With regards to the green residue on the helmet, unless I am mistaken, it’s brass oxidation and best removed for preservation of the item. In the past I have used white spirit on topz to remove the oxidation, using softer materials like wooden tooth picks and plastic disposable spoon on the harder brass to avoid marks. Then I used Brasso to polish the area gently to remove any remains of oxidation. Finally I applied some renaissance wax on the afflicted areas in the hope that it would prevent re-oxidation by restricting contact with oxygen.

7th December 2021, 11:18 AM	#7
kronckew Member Join Date: Mar 2006 Location: Room 101, Glos. UK Posts: 4,215	I hope that eagle top is replaced by something more practical in battle, like a spike (as in a picklhaube). I wondered about that wingnut & its stud too. It's an owie in waiting. Maybe you can wear a helmet under the helmet?

8th December 2021, 12:22 AM	#8
AHorsa Member Join Date: May 2014 Location: Rhineland Posts: 375	This is a wonderful parade helmet. Taking into account its value, I wouldn't do anything to it if I was not well known to conservation. I think the best option is to bring it to a good restorer. Would be a bit pitty if this fabolous piece of history got damaged by wrong treatment. Kind regards and congrats to that piece Andreas

8th December 2021, 02:11 AM	#9
Rikkn Member Join Date: Jan 2010 Location: Ormond by the Sea, Fl Posts: 50	A good restorer would be a good idea. Any suggestions for one in the states ?