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Pickelhaube, Cloth Helmet

These helmets were sometimes referred to as lobster-tail helmets by allied forces due to their distinctive curved neck guard. The design of these is based on the cavalry helmets in common use since the 16th century, but with some features taken from the leather helmets. The version worn by the Prussian Gardes du Corps was of tombac (copper and zinc alloy) with silver mountings. That worn by the cuirassiers of the line since 1842 was of polished steel with brass mountings, In 1892, a light brown cloth helmet cover, the M1892 berzug, became standard issue for all Pickelhauben for manoeuvers and active service. The berzug was intended to protect the helmet from dirt and reduce its combat visibility, as the brass and silver fittings on the Pickelhaube proved to be highly reflective.

Source: Wikipedia > Pickelhaube