Bicorne

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Man's Bicorne LACMA M.2010.33.1 (1 of 4)

Bicorne is a type of hat that was popular among European and American military and naval officers in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The bicorne is most closely associated with the Napoleonic Wars, where it became a symbol of high rank and authority. It is characterized by its broad, flat shape and two pointed corners (horns), from which it derives its name; "bicorne" means "two horns" in French.

History and Use

The bicorne originated in the 1790s as a development from the tricorne, which had three points and was the dominant style of hat during the early 18th century. As fashion shifted towards simpler and more practical styles, the tricorne was modified into the bicorne for ease of wear. The bicorne was typically worn with the points facing sideways, parallel to the shoulders, to allow for better visibility and mobility, although the orientation could vary by country and regiment.

During the Napoleonic Wars, the bicorne became closely associated with Napoleon Bonaparte, who famously wore his sideways. This style became a powerful symbol of his leadership and was widely emulated by other officers. In addition to military use, the bicorne was also worn by civilians, diplomats, and other officials as a part of formal dress.

Design and Variations

The design of the bicorne could vary significantly depending on the wearer's rank, nationality, and branch of service. High-ranking officers and officials often had bicornes made of fine materials like beaver fur, adorned with gold or silver braid, feathers, and cockades. The cockade, a knot of ribbons pinned to the hat, was particularly important as it often indicated the wearer's allegiance to a particular nation or ruler.

By the early 19th century, the bicorne was gradually replaced by the shako and other styles of military headgear, although it remained in use for ceremonial purposes in some contexts. Today, the bicorne is most commonly seen in historical reenactments, as part of traditional uniforms of certain military academies, and in the dress uniforms of some regiments.

Cultural Significance

The bicorne has left a lasting impact on Western cultural memory, largely due to its association with Napoleon and the Napoleonic Wars. It symbolizes an era of dramatic political and social change across Europe and is often used in art, literature, and film to evoke the period.

See Also

• Tricorne
• Napoleonic Wars
• Military uniform
• Hat