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Publié le
12 October 2023
à 16:44

The Prestigious Acquisition of an Iconic Historical Bicorn: A Masterpiece of Napoleon I Changes Hands for Nearly Two Million Euros

Photo : Chapeau de Napoleon – Emil Maes

Explore the fascinating world of Napoleon I’s bicorn hat, sold for a stunning price of 1.932 million euros in a historic auction. Delve into the imperial legacy of Jean-Louis Noisiez, founder of the GSF Group, and discover the symbolic addition of the tricolor cockade by Napoleon in the Mediterranean. This exceptional acquisition, surpassing previous records, offers a tangible connection to the imperial era. Don’t miss this captivating piece of history, marked by the enduring fascination with imperial memorabilia. The identity of the buyer, kept secret, adds a note of mystery to this memorable sale. A unique opportunity to own an authentic symbol of the empire.

In an exceptional auction, Napoleon I’s famous black bicorn hat, adorned with its iconic tricolor cockade, recently found a new owner for the remarkable sum of 1.932 million euros, including fees. This spectacular event significantly exceeded the prior estimates by the Osenat auction house, generating excitement among collectors worldwide. This remarkable acquisition took place shortly before the release of a major biographical film about Napoleon, further enhancing the mystique surrounding the emperor.

Auction Brilliance: The Imperial Bicorn, Modestly Estimated, Soars to an Astonishing Price Ahead of the Release of a Landmark Napoleon Biopic

The bicorn, displayed to the public before the auction, was initially estimated to be worth between 600,000 and 800,000 euros. However, it was sold at a staggering price, nearly four times its starting bid of 500,000 euros. This surge in bidding occurred just days before the launch of a major biopic about Napoleon, starring Joaquin Phoenix in the leading role. According to auctioneer Jean-Pierre Osenat, the hat itself embodies the image of the emperor, symbolizing a key era in European history.

COLLECTION 13

Zen Elegance

Inspired by the serenity of Asian aesthetics, this collection delicately combines balance and beauty. Floral patterns and soothing shades bring a sense of calm to any room.

This particular bicorn was worn by Napoleon during the middle of his reign, as revealed by Yves Moerman, a Belgian author specializing in documenting imperial headgear in 2007. It is fascinating to note that Napoleon is believed to have worn around 120 similar hats during his fifteen-year reign, making these artifacts rare and coveted by collectors.

Imperial Heritage: Jean-Louis Noisiez’s Bicorn, Witness to an Epic History, Eclipses Osenat Auction House’s Previous Records

The bicorn in question, part of the collection of the late Jean-Louis Noisiez, founder of the GSF Group, was made by Pierre-Quentin-Joseph Baillon, the emperor’s quartermaster from 1806 onwards. The addition of the tricolor cockade by Napoleon himself while sailing in the Mediterranean after his return from the island of Elba on March 1, 1815, adds a historical and unique dimension to this exceptional item.

This isn’t the first time that the Osenat auction house has set a record with a Napoleon hat. In 2014, another bicorn was sold for 1.884 million euros, also from the collection of the princely family of Monaco. This previous record has now been surpassed by the recent sale, attesting to the ongoing fascination with imperial memorabilia.

In comparison, a bicorn supposedly worn at the Battle of Waterloo was sold in 2018 for 350,000 euros in Lyon. These variations in sale values highlight the importance of provenance and the history attached to these historical objects.

CONCLUSION:

The sale of this exceptional Napoleon I bicorn marks a historic moment in the world of historical object auctions. Beyond its monetary value, this artifact embodies the essence of the Emperor and provides a tangible link to a bygone era. The identity of the buyer, kept secret, adds a touch of mystery to this prestigious acquisition.

In summary, the global fascination with historical artifacts persists, driven by media events such as the imminent release of the Napoleon biopic. This extraordinary auction attests to the enduring legacy of Napoleon Bonaparte, immortalized through iconic objects like his legendary bicorn hat.