the consular period (as of 1799) is an area of major changes in the overall aspect of the french army – this will be gradual from 1800 to 1805.
there are no strict regulations – as the official regulation is and will remain the 1786 one until…1812. It is amended by various decrees, but also by regimental orders or…verbal orders.
to summarize for the cavalry:
- Hussars: they will gradually change from the slender cone-sized mirliton to the peak-less shako and then standard shako from 1797 to 1801. Busbie stend also to be small and slender..
- Chasseurs: the shako has replaced the helmet (tarleton) in many cases already in 1797-1798 – usually this shako is ornamented with a cloth flame.
- Dragoons: helmets have had peaks since the 1786 regulation, but in some instances it is not worn – the change, if any is in the overall style of the helmet which will become increasingly slender.
- Cavalry: this is where most of the change occurs – the 8th regiment had always worn cuirasses – it starts having helmets as of 1801-1802, and gradually this is extended to other regiments – by 1805, cavalry regiments have either become cuirassiers or dragoons
The above is just an overview – many regiments switched to another branch of service – like the 7e bis hussars which became dragoons…
Hope this helps.
Yves Martin
does his research, selects his colors, and goes forth!
