An original French officer’s hausse-col (gorget) dating from the Revolutionary period. The gilt-brass crescent is mounted with an elaborate silvered emblem incorporating Revolutionary symbols, military trophies and inscriptions, characteristic of the strongly symbolic military insignia adopted during this period.

The central device includes the fasces and Phrygian cap, together with tablets referring to the Droits de l’Homme and the French Republic, surrounded by flags, cannon and other military trophies.

Worn at the throat as a visible indication of an officer on duty, the hausse-col was an important element of French officers’ insignia. A highly decorative and distinctly Revolutionary example.