Thresher & Glenny Solar Tope

A Pith Helmet or Solar Topi by Thresher & Glenny.

The Helmet is made of khaki canvas on a pith base with a leather rim. It also has a puggaree wrapped around the crown with a leather chin strap passing through it. The buckled strap goes over the top of the helmet and into the sun hat interior and out again to be neatly wrapped over the rim of the hat when not in use. This design of helmet was nicknamed the Bombay Bowler.

The maker's details of Thresher & Glenny, Outfitters, 152 & 153 Strand, London W.C. are on a red and gilt label to the interior. The hat size 7 is also marked to the interior. Thresher & Glenny have a long history, established in 1755 as tailors. In the 19th century a larger part of their work was catering for army officers to the extent that they even had an outpost near to Balaklava during the Crimean War. During the Great War they became known for their Trench Coat supplying over 28,000.

The Pith Helmet was perfect for hot climates as it allowed the air to circulate around the head whilst also providing shade. Aside from a little wear to the green canvas interior, the condition of this example is good. The leather edging to the rim also enhances it. Early 20th Century.

Sold with out the stand.