Minifigure – Prussian Landwehr Infantryman (Prussian Militia) from the Napoleonic Wars (LEGO Compatible)

This image displays a toy minifigure representing a Prussian Landwehr Infantryman (Prussian Militia) from the Napoleonic Wars era, specifically the War of Liberation (1813-1815).

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

The Figure: Prussian Landwehr This figure represents a citizen-soldier of Prussia (Germany), distinct from the professional “Line” soldiers because of his improvised but practical equipment.

• Headgear: The most defining feature of this figure is the “Schirmmütze” or Oilskin-Covered Shako. Unlike the fancy felt hats of the French or British, the Prussian Landwehr often wore these practical caps covered in waterproof oilskin. It features a Black Plume and, crucially, the Prussian Cockade (Black and White) or the Landwehr Cross on the front, identifying his loyalty to the Kingdom of Prussia.

• Uniform: He wears a dark tunic (historically, this represents the Litewka, a long coat often made of dark blue or black cloth, though here it appears dark green/grey with red collar facings). This was a cheaper, simpler uniform than the standard army dress.

• Trousers: He wears white trousers and black gaiters/boots.

• Equipment: The figure wears a brown leather strap across his chest and carries a brown knapsack (backpack) with a rolled blanket on top.

• Weapon: He is equipped with a standard Musket with a Bayonet. The Landwehr were often equipped with older muskets or British-supplied weapons.

• Facial Features: He sports a mustache, a popular style among German soldiers of the period.

Historical Background: The Prussian Landwehr was a militia force formed in 1813 after Napoleon’s defeat in Russia. Prussia, which had been humiliated by Napoleon earlier, called up all able-bodied men to fight for their freedom in the “War of Liberation” (Befreiungskrieg). These were not professional soldiers; they were shopkeepers, students, and farmers. Despite their lack of training and poor equipment, they fought with incredible patriotic fervor. They played a crucial role in the defeat of Napoleon at the Battle of Leipzig and fought alongside the British at the Battle of Waterloo under Field Marshal Blücher.