A distinctive bicorne hat belonging to Napoleon Bonaparte, worn during his final exile on Saint Helena, has been rediscovered after more than a century in storage at the Condé Museum. Curators found the beaver pelt hat, made by his official hat-maker Poupard, while preparing for an upcoming exhibition, and its provenance has been confirmed through extensive study.
The rediscovery highlights the enduring fascination with Napoleon and the high market value of his personal artifacts. The hat's intimate details, including signs of perspiration on the lining, offer a tangible connection to the historical figure. Its presentation coincides with a booming auction market for Napoleonic memorabilia, where items like his sword and other bicornes have recently fetched millions of dollars.