Early Civil War Period U.S. Light Artillery Headstall with Bullseye Rosettes

Early Civil War Period U.S. Light Artillery Headstall with Bullseye Rosettes – This is only the second original, war period, artillery headstall we have had. U.S. issue, artillery headstalls were fitted with horseshoe shaped strap buckles that were iron and faced with sheet brass; this example exhibits all of its original brass faced strap buckles. In addition, this headstall retains its original, early war, bullseye style, rosettes, backed with their original leather disks, painted red, indicative of artillery issue. Deeply stamped on both the forehead strap and the longer, behind-the-cheek strap, is the regimental designation – “BATTERY L”. The leather remains supple and strong; there is some cracking and wear to this rig. Civil War, original, Cavalry headstalls are not commonly found today, and artillery headstalls, especially still retaining their original brass faced buckles, rosettes and battery designation are even more difficult to obtain.