Antique Pith Helmet Made by Gieves
$675.00
Pith helmet with original metal carrying case. Made by Gieves Limited of London and Edinburgh. Size 7. Hat belonged to Capt. J. S. M. Ritchie , R. N. Metal case was painted to have a tortoise shell appearance. The helmet was produced by Gieves Ltd (Royal Navy Outfiters) at 21 Bond Street. Gieves Ltd started trading as ‘Gieve Matthews Seagrove Ltd’ in 1785 by Royal appointment and developed a name for themselves as a supplier for the Royal Navy . The name was modified to Gieves Ltd after end of Great War. This pith helmet is most likely from the interwar period. Whilst it cannot be verified the helmet is probably made from cork & canvas.
Gieves has had many illustrious patrons over the centuries including Charlie Chaplin and Laurence Oliver. Gieves acquired Hawkes in 1974 and became Gieves & Hawkes and relocated to Saville Row.
The pith helmet comes complete with it is own (admittedly slightly bruised and battered) trunk case. The case whilst personalised also carries the Gieves coat of arms. The case has a clasp for fastening and handle for carrying.
