Bonaparte, an unmistakable figure, is uniquely identified by the distinct silhouette of his hat. The cocked hat became the emblematic symbol of his legendary persona.
Throughout Napoleon's portraits, only the imperial crown rivals the iconic cocked hat. Despite occasional exceptions, the simplicity of the unadorned black hat, consistently worn by Bonaparte, outshines other accoutrements. Unlike many historical figures, Napoleon's character eclipsed his titles. A master strategist in both military and propaganda, Napoleon effortlessly embodied what set him apart from the masses. Maintaining and projecting this image became a daily, natural habit for him, facilitated by a consistent outfit that spared him the complexities associated with varied wardrobes. The numerous bicornes he possessed—from 1800 to 1812, averaging a dozen per year—attest to his pragmatic approach, especially when compared to the extravagant expenses of his royal predecessors. Even considering battlefield losses, his hat consumption appears reasonable.
Persistently attired in his gray frock coat—often mended—the adaptability of Napoleon's black hats to evolving fashions is notable. Charles de Steuben's 1826 painting "Life of Bonaparte" captures this adaptability, depicting various historical events through different cocked hats.
Measuring between 44 and 47 cm in length and 24 to 26 cm in height, Napoleon's bicornes, ranging from Italy to Saint Helena, maintained a consistent size. Authenticating between 20 and 30, these hats have become prized artifacts. Auctions, such as the sale of a 1807 hat in 2015 for £386,000, highlight their cultural significance. The bicorne has transformed into a metonymy for Napoleon, evident even in commercial branding.
Napoleon's loyalty extended beyond the hat itself to his hatter, Poupard, known as the "Hatter, costume designer, and trimmer of the Emperor and the princes." Poupard's shop, "Le Temple du Goût," supplied Napoleon with the famed "French hat" made from beaver skin, a costly choice due to the material's quality and rarity. Napoleon's preference for simplicity is reflected in Poupard's bills, showcasing his awareness of clothing's communicative power.
Originally priced at 48 francs, the "French hat" experienced inflation in 1806, reaching 60 francs. Poupard's bills reveal a contrast between the basic black beaver hat and a more elaborate embroidered hat, emphasizing Napoleon's preference for efficiency in both style and expenditure.
The bicorne's evolution from the musketeer's hat and the tricorn reflects practical considerations for military use. While the tricorn was initially popular, the bicorne gained prominence during the Italian campaign, defining Napoleon's distinctive appearance "in battle." Napoleon's strategic use of clothing as a political tool further solidified the bicorne's association with his legendary silhouette, distinguishing him from other European figures who also adopted the hat during the early 19th century. In conclusion, Napoleon's iconic bicorne hat stands not only as a symbol of his legendary persona but also as a testament to his strategic acumen, both on and off the battlefield. From its humble beginnings in the military headgear of the 17th century to its evolution into the distinct bicorne during the Italian campaign, the hat became an integral part of Napoleon's visual identity. His deliberate choices in attire, exemplified by the beaver-skin French hat from Poupard, showcased a keen understanding of the communicative power of clothing.
The consistent presence of the bicorne in Napoleon's life, from his early victories to his exile on Saint Helena, underscores its significance as a metonymy for the man himself. Whether worn "in battle" or subtly adapted to evolving fashions, the bicorne remained a steadfast companion in Napoleon's journey, transcending mere fashion to become a symbol of political and military prowess.
The enduring legacy of Napoleon's bicorne is not confined to museums and private collections; it extends to the realm of commercial branding, where the hat has become a recognizable emblem. Auctions and acquisitions further highlight its cultural and historical value. Beyond the material aspects, the bicorne encapsulates Napoleon's commitment to simplicity, efficiency, and the careful crafting of his public image.
As we reflect on Napoleon's life through the lens of his iconic hat, we recognize a convergence of military strategy, personal style, and political symbolism. The bicorne, in all its variations and historical contexts, remains a tangible link to an era defined by one man's indomitable spirit and his ability to shape not only history but also the visual language that immortalizes him.