These eagles were mounted onto the top of a Glockenspiel (also called a "Jingling Johnny" or lyra), a percussion instrument composed of a set of tuned keys similar to the xylophone but made of metal plates. These were displayed during military parades as part of a musical ensemble. A member of the unit’s band would hold the pole and shake it while
marching with the rest of the band, usually behind the front of the drum line. It was originally carried as part of the military band to keep time synchronized between the music and marching. Today, both France and Germany still retain the use of these music pieces, but only during ceremonious occasions. From author's own collection.
