Minifigure – French Line Lancer Chevau-léger Lancier from the Napoleonic Wars (LEGO Compatible)

This image displays a toy minifigure representing a French Line Lancer (specifically a Chevau-léger Lancier) from the Napoleonic Wars era (circa 1811–1815).

Here is a detailed breakdown of the figure and its historical significance:

The Figure: French Line Lancer (4th Regiment) This figure represents a specific type of light cavalry created by Napoleon later in the wars to counter the lancers of other nations.

• Uniform: He wears the distinctive Dark Green Tunic (habit-vert) characteristic of French Dragoons and Lancers. The key identifier is the Maroon/Crimson Plastron (the colored panel on the chest) with gold buttons. In the French military color-coding system, the Crimson facing color specifically identifies this soldier as a member of the 4th Lancer Regiment (4e Chevau-légers Lanciers).

• Headgear: He wears a Brass Helmet with a black horsehair crest (comb). This is historically significant because the first six regiments of French Lancers were converted directly from Dragoon regiments in 1811. For a time, they retained their old Dragoon helmets before receiving the square-topped “Czapka” caps later in the war. This figure accurately depicts that transitional look or the specific style of the Line Lancers who kept the helmets.

• The Weapon (The Lance): The most important accessory is the long Cavalry Lance. It features a steel tip and a Red and White Pennant (flag). The pennant was used not just for decoration, but to frighten enemy horses with its fluttering and sound during a charge.

• Accessories: The set includes a pair of Red Epaulettes, signifying elite status or specific company affiliation, and a standard red belt.

• Facial Features: He sports a mustache and sideburns, the standard “martial face” of the period.

Historical Background: In 1811, after seeing the effectiveness of Polish and Russian lancers, Napoleon Bonaparte ordered six of his Dragoon regiments to be converted into Chevau-légers Lanciers (Light Horse Lancers). He gave them lances, which provided a reach advantage over enemy sabers. These “Green Lancers” were fearsome on the battlefield. They were excellent at pursuing retreating infantry and breaking defensive squares, as their lances could reach soldiers hiding behind bayonets. The 4th Regiment served in the invasion of Russia and the final campaigns of 1813-1814.