"French Sepoys in the SYW - flag speculation" Topic

A bit of a hopeful question, but does anyone have any speculation as to the flags that French Sepoys might have marched under in the Seven Years War and surrounding period (mid 18th century).

As far as I can tell there is no concrete information on this, so I am split between two options. First, going with the generic French white cross. Second, going for a generic native Indian standard (as far as I can tell, a lot of French Sepoys were really mercenary bands signed up to new master, who might have had their own standards).

I appreciate that there's a lot of missing info on this period, but even the broadest speculation would be appreciated!

Now that is a good question

If you extrapolate from other French colonies, the Canadian militia probably had no colours – I mean, they didn't even have a uniform

The Companies de la Marine did have colours – but they were associated with the Navy, while as I recall the French sepoys were associated with the French Compagnie des Indes which although having a lot of government ties was a commercial enterprise, so if any colours at all I think perhaps local standards

Thanks for the reply – yes, I didn't include option three (no colours) mostly on account of 'rule of cool', but it's definitely plausible!

I think you're probably right in terms of local standards, plus they would double well as 'Princes' Sepoys' or some of the more regular Indian forces (e.g. under Mir Qasim).

I have painted up SYW india the last 9 years..read whata;s out there .I never found a reference to a flag for the Sepoys. But you could always use the Compagnie des indes
flag,that d bussey's corps used.Otherwise,use you own wimsy.whose going to correct you..LoL!

I think you're right :) cheers, it sucks when there isn't an answer but hey, that's history!