French military belt with cartridge pouches and braces – First World War
French military belt with cartridge pouches – leather equipment with braces
A French military belt (ceinturon) of brown leather with the characteristic brass two-prong buckle: a brass tube with two prongs that engage in two rows of holes, with a leather keeper. Attached to the belt are two leather cartridge pouches (cartouchières) with flap, closing tab and metal stud, and the matching support braces with brass hooks and rings. Belt and buckle correspond to the French belt model 1903/14, the pouches to the French cartridge pouches of the 1916 type, worn with braces with brass hooks: the equipment of the French infantryman in the First World War.
Why we chose this piece
The beautiful, thick leather in various shades of brown, the brass buckle and hooks and the well-thought-out carrying system make this a telling piece of military history as well as a robust object with character. We bought this piece in France, from a collector of First World War militaria.
Style and interior
Lovely on a coat rack or hook, over a chair or in a display cabinet; suits an industrial, country-style or rugged interior and a collection of militaria or old leather goods.
Condition
Very good condition: the leather is still remarkably soft and supple, almost as if it were not so old. The belt is sturdy with a lovely brass buckle with patina (photo 2). The cartridge pouches are complete with flaps, closing tabs and studs; on the flap of one pouch the leather shows light craquelure (photo 5). The braces are complete with brass hooks and rings and have a lovely well-worn patina (photo 9). No tears or missing fastenings.
Dimensions: to follow shortly
Material: leather, brass, iron
Model: French belt model 1903/14 with cartridge pouches type 1916 and braces
Period: First World War, c. 1914–1918
Origin: France, from a French collection
Quantity: belt, 2 cartridge pouches, support braces
Condition: very good condition; soft and supple leather, complete with buckle, two cartridge pouches and braces; light craquelure on the flap of one pouch
Price:
€ 245
Worldwide shipping is available. Shipping costs are calculated separately based on destination, size and weight.
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