WW1 German Pillbox Hat verification

[Dolomitenfreund]

I purchased this "German WW1 Feldmütze" in Britain back in the early 1980's.
Feldmütze was the term used by the selling merchant label, but all the examples I see with that name are a floppy fabric variety and not firm as this one.
I believe the proper term for this kind of cap is "Pill-box Hat" and it was still commonly used by Armies prior and up to WW1, in particular by forces of the British Empire. But the colors are not those of the British but more like German ones.

Does anyone have any knowledge what this cap/hat really is and what forces (and when) it was used by?
I would really appreciate any further information regarding this mystery hat.
With thanks, Alvin

Front View

[John G.]

Definately German WW 1 materials and "intension".....I've NEVER seen another "Pill box" like this. Is it a "hard shell" inside? ...looks like it has a similiar inner shell like a "panzer beret"..... my thought is some kind of early "protective Crash helmet version" of a feldmutze for Tankers/Armoured Car Crew/possibly Air Crew... but who knows? Possibly experimental.....but construction, etc. all look legit to me....

Whoever stuck the stickey tag inside SHOULD BE SHOT.....potentially very damaging to it's value unless removed properly without damaging the lining (unless it was an original PERIOD tag, of course!).

Field Mutzen remained in wear until the late 20s/early 30s, including wear by the Free Corps.... but nearly "all" would be WW 1 vintage stocks.... this one also looks like it had cockaden at one time....
John G.

I might try the WW 1 German specialist sites, forums, and museums .... but a WW 1 feldmutze "Crash helmet" (in Pill box form) is a FIRST for me....(and I've seen literally 100s of feldmutzes).....

[Dolomitenfreund]

Hi John, Thank you again for coming to my rescue. I am glad to read that you agree the materials (fabric and color) match what one would expect to be German. The hat is indeed very firm, almost as if it were on very firm cardboard or thin wood. Unfortunately the sticker on the inside it that of the English merchant I bought it from. After all these years I would not venture to pull it off, for exactly the reasons you mentioned. Armed with the clues you have provided, I will venture forth with my research looking for Feldmütze/Crash Helmet/Pillbox form.
Thanks again for sharing your knowledge.
Cheers, Alvin