PAINTING GUIDE

HELMET: Model 1858 - silver with gold crest, chin scales and plume holder, the band was
of fine black fur. The visor and neck guard were of steel edged with gilt. Black
horse tail and scarlet tuft. The plume was not worn on campaing.
CUIRASS: The guard model cuirass of 1855 was worn by officers of certain Cuirassier
regiments at this time. It was made of steel with round headed gold rivets. The
breast plate and backplate were held together by a black leather waistbelt with
gold buckles and black leather shoulder straps that were adorned with a gilt
lion’s head double chain leather tongue. The backing of the cuirass was made of
hemp and was clearly visible as red outer edge.
TUNIC: During this period a new tunic model (1868) was prescribed.Nvertheless, many
officers wore the old model (1858). It was very dark blue/black after 1860 and
lined in dark red cloth with dark red piping to the front of the tunic. The cuffs were
the same colour as the tunic piped in dark red. Dark red cuff flaps with three
silver buttons. As the coat tails were quite long, it was common practise to wear
themfolded back revealing the dark red lining. On the rear of the tunic were two
false pockets piped in dark red with silver buttons. The collar was dark red. Black
neck cloth with edge showing.Silver epaulettes.
TROUSERS: Dark red with dark blue or black stripe.
BOOTS: On campaing either knee boots or adjustable leggings were worn in black leather.
SPURS:  Silver
GLOVES: White buckskin
SWORD BELT: The sword slings were of withe hide, sword knot was of black plaited leather with
gold tassel.
SABRE: 1854 model first issued to the Carabiniers and later to the Cuirassiers (1863). The
blade of the officers sword was lighter and 25cm shorter. The guard was gilded
the handle being made of black horn.
HARNESS: Breast plate straps, crupper and stirrups in black leather. The surcingle was of
white webbing. Bridles and halter in black leather. All buckles and ornaments were
dilded. The saddle was in natural leather. Saddle bags in black leather with brass
buckles. Pistol holsters in natural leather with gilded holster caps. The schabraque
was in dark blue cloth with white facing to the edge piped in scarlet and black
rubbing patches either side. The overcoat was rolled up in front of the saddle, it
was royal blue with natural leather straps. Valise in dark blue cloth with scarlet
piping and white grenade, brass buckles and black leather straps..