Paris outing: a salute to style at the Musée de l'Armée

Elegance is also the prerogative of soldiers. It was definitely time for a major Parisian site to honor them with an exhibition. Featuring more than 200 master pieces highlighting armory, uniforms, gunsmithery, as well as equipment, from the 16th century until today, the Musée de l’Armée displays exceptional objects that distinguish the military uniform from those of civilians, between warring furor and an aspiration to beauty.

The Musée de l'Armée deserves a major salute!

Until the 26th of January 2020, the museum invites us to discover fashion stemming from the military circles under a new angle. If under the Monarchy or the French Revolution soldiers had a pronounced taste for armament, the duty of distinction and the taste of prestige are often closely linked to power, thanks to pageantry clothing unveiling the radiance of their triumphs.

The armor of the Dauphin, future Henri II, and this helmet from the King's royal guard demonstrate the quality of the pieces presented. © DR

Fleur de lys, royal coach, this « pertuisane » sword from the Gardes de la Manche, belonging to the House of the King, is real silversmith work. © DR

Prestigious military adornmens

Deluxe old fashioned weapons, armors, harquebus, goldsmithery, embroidery, ivory work, saddlery and equipment are also in the running. This taste for adornments, which participate in the identity of an army, by imposing a status and a proximity with historical political power, is brilliantly showcased between the walls of the Hôtel des Invalides. It's as handsome as the parade !

This pair of pistols belonging to Louis Ferdinand, Dauphin of France, is priceless. © DR

These hussar boots and this drummer jacket from the Coldtream Guards seem to have sustained time without any damage. © DR