Small Silver Napoleon Figurine

Other similar loyal Napoleonic personal items carried on campaign were inscribed or embossed snuff mulls, penknives, medallions or presentation pocket watches. Many figures were a cheaper variety than this example, being cast in bronze, brass or copper. This figure is cunningly designed so that when Napoleon is pushed backwards, a spring makes the eagle rise up from under him. Other figurines may be seen on display at the Le Caillou Farm Museum, south of Waterloo – Napoleon’s headquarters on the night before the battle.

The figurine was picked up by Captain Henry Festing, Royal Artillery. He also acquired a French cavalry sword. Festing was probably in the Netherlands at the time of the battle, but is not found on the medal roll for Waterloo. This officer probably purchased or found the two souvenirs when on a visit after the action of the 18 June. Captain Festing was the eldest son of a Royal Naval officer and he died in 1838. His brother, Captain Sir Benjamin Festing, was present at the Battle of Trafalgar.