Minifigure – Dutch Dragoon a heavy cavalry soldier from the Napoleonic Wars (LEGO Compatible)

This image displays a toy minifigure representing a Dutch Dragoon, a heavy cavalry soldier from the Napoleonic Wars era.

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

The Figure: Dutch Dragoon This figure represents a cavalryman from the Netherlands (specifically the Kingdom of Holland or the later United Kingdom of the Netherlands) during the early 19th century.

• Uniform: The figure wears a dark blue tunic with a prominent red plastron (the chest panel) and red collar. This “Blue with Red Facings” color scheme was distinct from the French Dragoons (who wore green) and was characteristic of Dutch heavy cavalry regiments. He wears dark blue trousers and black riding boots.

• Headgear: He wears a distinctive Brass (Gold) Helmet in the neo-classical “Minerva” style. It features a black horsehair crest (mane) on top and a red plume on the side. This style of helmet was heavily influenced by the French heavy cavalry of the time.

• Accessories: The set includes a pair of white epaulettes (shoulder scales), which were used to broaden the soldier’s silhouette and provide protection against sword cuts.

• Weapons: As a Dragoon (a soldier trained to fight on horseback or foot), he is well-equipped with firearms. He carries a Flintlock Pistol for close-quarters mounted combat and a long Carbine/Musket for dismounted skirmishing.

Historical Background: During the Napoleonic Wars, Dutch Dragoons had a complex history. Initially, under the Kingdom of Holland (ruled by Napoleon’s brother Louis), Dutch cavalry fought alongside the French. Later, at the Battle of Waterloo (1815), Dutch Dragoon regiments (like the 4th and 5th Light Dragoons) fought against Napoleon as part of the Allied army. The uniform depicted here—blue coat with red facings and a brass helmet—closely resembles the heavy cavalry style used by Dutch units that were modeled after French Cuirassiers or Dragoons.