Military bicorne 1875 - 1880

This military bicorne hat was crafted by Bent & Bush. Its dominant visual experience is one of austere elegance. The severe lines of its silhouette contrast with the soft texture of the material. The dark colour absorbs light, emphasizing its sharp geometric form. The hat’s design speaks volumes about its historical context. The bicorne, with its flattened, two-pointed shape, was a symbol of military authority and status. Its form is not merely functional; it is a signifier, deeply embedded with cultural codes. The hat challenges notions of simple utility; its very design is an assertion of power and hierarchy. The gold trim and button, though minimal, further enhance this sense of authority, acting as semiotic markers of rank and prestige. The bicorne, therefore, is not simply headwear, but a potent symbol. Its carefully crafted form reflects the complex interplay of power, representation, and identity in the military and social structures of its time. It serves as a reminder that even the most functional objects can be laden with meaning, constantly inviting interpretation and re-evaluation.