An incredibly rare Victorian Madras/Bengal Staff Corps uniform collection to a Lieutenant Colonel, dating from 1861-76 with Jacket, Trousers, Belts, Sash.
In 1861 independent Staff Corps were created for the Bengal, Bombay and Madras Armies, being subsequently merged to combine the Indian Staff Corps in 1876. This uniform set has elements from both the Bengal and Madras corps, clearly this officer served in both, which is not particularly unusual.
It is incredibly unusual to find a uniform from the pre 1881 period for such a rare unit and high rank.
Contains :
- Scarlet Jacket for the Madras Staff Corps, for the rank of Lieutenant Colonel
- trousers
- white canvas Bengal Staff Corps belt with black leather field glasses case with metal victorian Cypher. Made by Ranken & Co of Calcutta.
- beautiful ornate Sash
- waist Sash belt with tassles and frogging
Jacket has beautiful brocaded collar and very ornate bullion cord cuffs. Ranking crowns on the collar.
Bullion Rope shoulder boards.
Victorian crown gilt Madras Staff Corps buttons present - 2 on the front at belt height have been replaced by livery/hunting club buttons plus one of the shoulder buttons similarly.
Chest Size approx 38 inches. Armpit to armpit measurement is 19.5 inches. Armpit to cuff is 20.5 inches
Jacket Condition - generally very good with limited moth trails. Fabric is worn / slightly discoloured in places eg between the shoulders. Inner lining is perished.
Trousers are black wool with beautiful gold brocade and red stripe.
Waist measures 19 inches across when laid flat - approx 34 inches when worn.
Trousers in very nice condition - with one small stained patch. Inside leg 32 inches
