Ready, Set, Blow!

 If you've heard me during a 'History of Handkerchiefs' lecture, you've heard me mention that 19th century bandannas and handkerchiefs were used for unusual purposes -- including illustrated guides for loading and cleaning guns. I've only seen these in pictures -- until now! 

Here's what the Ebay seller said:

"Mouchoir d'Instruction Militaire No. 1" is the first  in a series of ten instructional handkerchiefs meant for distribution to French troops in the late 19th century. This handkerchief provides instructions  for disassembly and reassembly of the Model 1873 Revolver

In 1872, following the introduction of general conscription for all French citizens (male), after the failure of the war of 1870, it was important that they could keep the training they had received.
Indeed, this training was often done orally, and few traces remained.
Solutions are therefore put in place to be able to train through the image, and the solution of the military instruction handkerchief is developed. The handkerchief, in the 19th century, is a very important accessory. It serves both for fashion, but also as a commemorative object of an event or a situation.
Finally, other uses in the field are also possible for these handkerchiefs: scarf, splint or even bandage for an injured limb. 
Printed in red and black on an off-white ground. The complete series consisted of: No. 1 Dismantling the 1873 model revolver No. 2 Dismantling the 1874 model revolver No. 3 Signals and basic instruction for cavalry No. 4 Instruction in packing for cavalry on parade or campaign No. 4a (second edition) Dismantling the 1890 model carbine No. 5 The use of the 80 and 90 mm cannon No. 6 Basic military lore for the reserve soldier No. 7 Health and safety on campaign No. 8 Preparing for inspection and review No. 9 Dismantling the 1886 model rifle No. 10 Methods for crossing streams
 


The former owner: Selma Ekrem ( 1902-1986) author, daughter of Turkish and former governor of Jerusalem Ali Ekram Bolayir ( 1867-1937), granddaughter of author and poet and social reformer, Ottoman Empire,  Namik Kemal ( 1840-1888). 
The textiles came with her as a child to the United States in 1924.  
Ms Ekrem lived in Plymouth MA until she died in 1986.  

Come to one of my lectures -- and you'll see this rare piece in person!