Bombay Bowler, Seaforth Highlanders. 1942.

An original private purchase solar topee 'pith helmet' which belonged to an officer of the Seaforth Highlanders during the Second World War. This helmet most likely belonged to an officer of the 1st battalion of the Seaforth Highlanders and was most likely purchased around 1942 when the regiment joined the 23rd Infantry Division in India before moving on to battle in Burma. It was purchased by the officer in Madras and is a typical style worn by officers during this period. Solar topees were still a common sight in the early part of the war but not seen much after the fall of Singapore. The helmet is made from shola pith which is covered in a khaki colored cloth. A pugree also spelt as ‘puggaree’ and ‘pagri’, is fitted around the circumference of the helmet and a leather chin strap is also present. To the side of the helmet a Seaforth Highlanders cap badge has been fitted on a tartan backing and a red and white feature is fitted above this. The interior of the helmet features a liner which has a leather sweatband. The original label is fitted to the inside of the crown and bears the maker's name of 'M. Mohamed Eyan Sahib'. The address of 28 Moore Market, Madras is also present as are the words 'Real Pith Sola Hat'.

Original Photographs. Limited edition, numbered. Available on archival paper. Custom sizes and framing available.