Napoleon Bonaparte is a major historical figure, made all the more recognizable by his habit of wearing his bicorne hat sideways. About 20 of Napoleon’s hats are known to still be in existence, and one of them was sold in November of 2023 at the Osenat Auction House of Fontainebleu, France, for about $2.1 million.

A bicorne hat was a common military style for the time. It was traditionally worn with the corners pointed forward and behind. But Napoleon chose to wear his with the corners aligned with his shoulders, creating a unique look for himself, and inspiring numerous imitators. The anonymous buyer paid about €1.9 million for it, or about $2.1 million USD.

The sale coincided with the release of Ridley Scott’s epic historical film Napoleon, which has been criticized for some of its historical inaccuracies. But Napoleon himself was not above taking such liberties with the truth. In what may be the most famous painting of him, known as Napoleon Crossing the Alps, by Jacques Louis David (1748-1825), Napoleon insisted that he be depicted mounted on a rearing stallion. In fact, he made the crossing riding a mule. But that would make for a much less glorious image. Artist Paul Delaroche (1797-1856) made a considerably more realistic painting of the event in 1848.

If you’d like help evaluating any of your vintage or antique clothing, whether it be hats, shoes, or anything in between, just hit the link below to get started.

https://siscoantiquesappraisals.com/appraisal/