German WWI Aviators Leather Flying Helmet and Photograph

A compelling small group featuring a well-used Imperial German flying helmet of the classic design. The outer leather crown shows overall crazing from heat exposure, with some abrasions to the leather at the edges and crown cushion. Complete with front peak, ear protectors, and neck flap, the latter bearing an issue stamp that has become obscured over time due to dirt and wear. The inside of the front peak bears the hand-applied initials ‘H.O?’.

Accompanying the helmet is a studio portrait—head and shoulders—of an Imperial German aviator dressed in the distinctive Litewka tunic, with flying wing propeller shoulder boards clearly visible. The photograph is slightly faded and housed in a black wood frame whose backing and stand are richly decorated with impregnated Iron Cross motifs.

Notably, the matching storage staining on both helmet and framed photograph suggests they likely belonged to the same individual, offering a rare and poignant connection between artifact and owner.

Ref; 94168