The Illustrated Encyclopedia of the Uniforms of the Napoleonic Wars

This outstanding book describes and illustrates the military uniforms and insignia of the Austrian, British, French, Prussian and Russian forces, with an unprecedented 550 specially commissioned artworks, and includes additional material on American and other minor forces involved in the conflict. The introduction gives a concise, authoritative account of the course of the Napoleonic wars, with detailed analysis of its decisive encounters and landmark engagements, all illustrated with contemporaneous colour plates and dramatic fine art paintings, which bring to life the experience of a Napoleonic soldier on campaign. 
The main thrust of the book are the magnificent expert artworks of the uniforms of the Cuirassiers, Dragoons, Hussars, Cossacks, Troopers, Fusiliers, Grenadiers and Sappers. All are vividly portrayed and expertly described. As well as the illustrations of the uniforms, equipment and kit, the campaigns and battles are explained with clearly drawn maps and battle plans. The expert text, by renowned military historian Digby Smith, examines the organization, tactics and experience of the men-at-arms of this dynamic and turbulent period. This comprehensive illustrated volume presents not only a unique visual directory of Napoleonic uniforms, but an enlightening and evocative portrait of the political, military and social context of the soldiers who fought at the time.