Delving into the fascinating world of history and style, it's impossible not to wonder about the details that marked iconic personalities.
Today, we examine a fashion accessory that has stood the test of time: the hat worn by Napoleon Bonaparte.
November 19, 2023, will remain etched in auction history, as an iconic piece of Napoleon I's legacy found a new owner. The famous black bicorne adorned with its blue, white, and red cockade was sold for the remarkable sum of 1.932 million euros at an auction in Fontainebleau. This transaction, far exceeding initial estimates, underlines the historical importance and cultural value attached to this legendary accessory.
Auction Details: The auction, which took place in Fontainebleau, attracted the attention of collectors, history enthusiasts, and lovers of exceptional objects. Put on the market, Napoleon I's bicorne generated keen interest, resulting in dynamic bidding that ultimately led to its acquisition for the impressive sum of 1.932 million euros.
A Bicorne Rich in History: This black bicorne, proudly displaying the tricolor cockade, is much more than a simple clothing accessory. It embodies the imperial era and Napoleon I's majestic aura. The object itself tells a story, woven with crucial moments in French history, and its acquisition at such a high price reflects the value placed on these unique historical artifacts.
Reactions and Cultural Significance: The sale of this bicorne has sparked enthusiastic reactions within the historical community and collectors worldwide. It's not just a hat that changed hands, but a tangible piece of the past that will continue to captivate and inspire those who have the privilege to contemplate it. The tricolor cockade adds a patriotic dimension, reinforcing the emotional attachment to this object charged with symbolism.
Impact on the Historical Objects Market: This exceptional sale highlights the growing demand for historical objects of great importance. The auction of Napoleon I's bicorne sets a significant benchmark for other historical artifacts on the market, suggesting increased value for authentic and well-preserved pieces linked to iconic figures in world history.
The sale at 1.932 million euros of Napoleon I's bicorne in Fontainebleau represents much more than a financial transaction. It's a testament to the world's unwavering attachment to its history and the value placed on objects that have stood the test of time. This bicorne, now in the hands of a new guardian, will continue to inspire and fascinate, reminding everyone that the past can be tangible, and sometimes, it can be worn on the head.
This Sunday will forever mark auction history, as Napoleon's iconic bicorne found a buyer for the remarkable sum of 1.932 million euros (including fees) in Fontainebleau. This auction, organized by Osenat auction house, significantly surpassed initial estimates, coming from the collection of a Nice entrepreneur.
An undisputed symbol of Napoleon I, this bicorne was initially valued between 600,000 and 800,000 euros, with a starting price set at 500,000 euros. Adorned with the cockade that the emperor had affixed upon his return from Elba in 1815, near Cap d'Antibes, this unique piece bears witness to crucial moments in French history.
The identity and nationality of the fortunate buyer remain confidential, adding a touch of mystery to this exceptional acquisition. Among the many "Napoleon's hats" recorded, this one stands out for its rarity and verifiable authenticity. According to experts, of the initial 120 hats, only about ten remain, and among these, two or three would be in private hands.
Jean-Pierre Osenat, from the eponymous auction house, emphasizes the unique value of this hat by stating: "He had 120, about 16 remain, and in private hands, maybe two or three. But this hat alone carries all the symbolism of 15 years that revolutionized France and changed the world."
This exceptional sale testifies not only to the continuing fascination with imperial history but also to the rarity and profound significance of this historical artifact. Napoleon's bicorne, now in the hands of a new guardian, will continue to inspire and remind the world of the immeasurable impact of these 15 years that redefined France and left an indelible mark on the course of world history.