Like much of the evolution of the armies of the Napoleonic era, the evolution of the Grenadiers of the Imperial Guard was somewhat complicated. There was a single regiment at its creation in 1804, but a second regiment was added on April 15, 1806. In 1809, in an effort to economize, the two regiments were combined, with the strengths of the companies increasing. The Kingdom of Holland was absorbed in to France in 1810; this lead to the former Royal Guard infantry of the Kingdom becoming the new 2nd regiment of Grenadiers of the Imperial Guard on September 13, 1810. Napoleon expanded the Guard again on May 11, 1811, adding a second (French) regiment again, causing he ex-Dutch Grenadiers to be renumbered as the 3rd. The Regiment suffered heavily during the retreat from Russia in 1812, particularly at Krasny where the Guard turned back to rescue half of the army. With fewer than 50 officers and men remaining, the regiment was disbanded on February 15, 2013.
Since first seeing this uniform in Fred and Lilliane Funkens L'Uniforme et les Armes des Soldats du Premier Empire circa 1970, I have always thought it a very elegant one, with white coats faced crimson and brass/gold buttons. It was based upon but not identical the uniform they had worn previously as the Royal Guards.
These are Piano Wargames figures by Lucas Luber. I already had 1 regiment each of Old Guard Grenadiers and Chasseurs, so choosing to finally model this unit was an easy choice.
The flag is a free download from Lucas' website.
The unit had a umber of uniform idiosyncrasies at various stages of its existence, so I have of course chosen to represent them. The regiment's band (as opposed to the individual company units drummers) had sky blue uniforms faced yellow, and in the Royal Guard and for some time thereafter, the sappers wore reversed colors; both are depicted here.
Great work on some lovely figures Peter. I would have been annoyed if I was the Dutch, being bumped down to 3rd again.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Lawrence; I would agree. Napoleon wasn't known for treating his allies well (such as absorbing Holland into France in the first place!).
DeleteLovely work on the Dutch guards Peter. I had this regiment at one point, but not for a long time now - maybe I should rectify that?
ReplyDeleteThey are a handsome unit, but did have a relatively brief existence, and almost of of their action was in Russia in 1812.
DeleteSplendid looking unit that you've painted there, Peter.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Richard. I had been looking forward to doing them, and they certainly are more impressive than my older grognards!
DeleteYou've done very well with those, excellent!
ReplyDeleteThose look really good.
ReplyDeleteAll the best, Andy