Bavarian Cuirassiers Helmet, worn during the reign of King Ludwig II of Bavaria from 1864 to 1886. He was the son of King Maximilian II. King Ludwig, who had been raised in his father’s Hohenschwangau Castle, became known as “the Mad King” and “the Swan King” for the elaborate castles that he built, including one of Germany’s most iconic attractions, Neuschwanstein Castle. It was constructed at the site of the original fortress, “Schwangau”, which had been built in the 12^th century. This helmet is dated 1867, shortly after Ludwig II ascended to the throne. It was worn by Cuirassiers (heavy cavalry) in his service. This helmet has a steel shell with lion head side bosses holding the scaled chinstraps. It has a single Bavarian painted state cockade to the left side. Large brass comb with Ludwig II’s cipher “L” to the center. It has a black brush hair plume on the comb. The rear peak has plain brass domed rivets. The interior is painted  green  on the  underside of the peak and black paint to the rest of the interior. It is complete with liner. The helmet shell is stamped below the right-side lion’s head boss, “50” and “1867.” Front plate requires restoration as to finish, but the helmet is in otherwise in overall excellent condition and is a very attractive display piece.