DEL PRADO DUTCH FIELD OFFICER, MILITIA 1815
Overview
Introduction and set overview
History of Dutch Militia in 1815
Collector Notes
This review examines the Del Prado ‘‘Field Officer, Dutch Militia, 1815’’ (NA087) miniature from the Napoleon at War series. Released in 2002, this 1:30 scale tin‑alloy figure stands on an oval pedestal and depicts a Dutch militia officer with a sabre and an orange sash. The figure is factory painted and presented in a blister pack alongside educational material, offering both visual appeal and historical context. Collectors will appreciate its period authenticity, packaging presentation, and inclusion in a well‑documented partwork collection.
Historical Background
This miniature represents a Dutch field officer of the militia during the closing stages of the Napoleonic Wars in 1815. Following the collapse of Napoleonic rule, the Kingdom of the Netherlands was proclaimed on November 16, 1815, uniting the former Austrian Netherlands and Dutch Republic. Militia units played a key role in national defence and internal security during this transitional period. Although the Battle of Waterloo on June 18, 1815, primarily involved regular Dutch troops under Prince of Orange, local militia forces served in garrison and reserve roles, maintaining order and readiness amid emerging state structures.
The officer’s sabre reflects typical sidearm use by mounted or staff officers, while the distinctive orange sash denotes royal loyalty and national identity—orange being associated with the House of Orange-Nassau. Consequently, this figure captures both symbolic and practical dimensions of militia service during a critical era when Dutch forces shifted from occupation to sovereignty.
Collector Notes
Identification: The figure is Del Prado serial NA087, part of the Napoleon at War series, clearly marked beneath the oval base with era (1750–1815), nationality (Dutch), and collection number (lastdodo.com). The figure is 1:30 scale, made of tin‑alloy, factory painted, and released in 2002 (lastdodo.com). Packaging: It was distributed in a blister pack including an Osprey booklet excerpt, enhancing its educational appeal (lastdodo.com). Variants: No alternate versions are recorded, though minor paint variations may exist across factory batches. Condition: Collectors should inspect the oval pedestal for paint chipping and the blister for wear—most common packaging defect. Secondary‑market prices typically range around €6–€10 when complete—blister and card intact (figurenschnapp.de).
Typical display: The figure is often paired with other Napoleonic subjects; orange sash offers striking contrast and display prominence. Overall, this miniature combines historical fidelity, collector value, and aesthetic clarity in a compact format.
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