Del Prado Ingermanland Hussar, 1854: The Russian Cavalry Beyond the British Charge

Del Prado · Russian Empire · Crimean War · 1854

The blue-grey uniform and brown horse give this Russian hussar a restrained appearance. The Del Prado reference shows the figure in its blister, preserving a useful label for a subject often overshadowed by British accounts of the Crimean War.

The rider’s upper clothing and headgear are visible through the plastic, while the horse’s side gives a clear general outline. Reflections make fine details harder to judge. The packaging is therefore useful evidence for the subject, but a less reliable guide to small paint faults or repaired projections.

Looking across the battlefield

The Crimean War is frequently remembered through the Charge of the Light Brigade. Russian cavalry belonged to a much larger battlefield story, including the fighting around the approaches to Balaklava and the Allied siege of Sevastopol.

On 25 October 1854, Russian attacks threatened the Allied base and drew responses from infantry and cavalry. The celebrated British charges were separate episodes within that action. A Russian mounted figure helps widen the view, but the dealer’s regimental identification and year do not by themselves establish the exact squadron or moment represented.

Inspect through the packaging carefully

Ask for clear views of the headgear, weapon and horse’s legs. The dealer’s reference mentions damaged packaging; that describes the photographed item, not every example of this figure. Card wear, plastic damage and the condition of the miniature should be assessed separately.

For a loose figure, look for the correct horse-and-rider combination and any remaining underside inscription. Pale braid or straps can become difficult to distinguish if the paint has rubbed away. A rear view will help reveal the drape of the clothing and the saddle connection.

The British 4th Light Dragoon of 1854 already in the catalog makes a strong companion. A pair with matching dates can open both sides of the Crimean cavalry story while their separate labels prevent an unsupported claim that the two figures depict a specific encounter.

A quieter display suits this model. Leave the upper body clear and use a simple caption to supply the regimental and campaign context that the uniform alone cannot communicate.

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