Published by Dorling Kindersley as part of their Eyewitness Visual Dictionaries range (1992) price Price £ 8.99. 64 pages. ISBN 0-86318-836-2

This sumptuously illustrated book covers the history of uniforms from the Roman period to the modern day, with the emphasis on visual presentation of information. Although at first glance it may appear aimed at the younger reader, the information it contains is of use for readers of all ages.

The book uses mainly photographs of actual items of uniform and equipment, with a short text to describe each period. Most of the information is presented as labels to the photographs, and there are sections covering Epaulettes and Insignia, Footwear and Belts, Holsters and Scabbards. The section on the development of headwear through the ages includes a French Dragoon Officers Helmet 1816- 25, and a French Lancer Officers Czapska c.1811-15. Many of the uniforms are shown as photographs of display mannekins in museums such as the Musee de I'Armee in Paris.

Each item of uniform is examined in great detail, and each part is labelled. The Napoleonic period includes a French Hussar Officer (dolman and breeches), French cavalry in general, Infantry (Grenadiers and Fusiliers), and Nelson's Navy, looking at shirts, waistcoat and breeches of a Flag Officer.

This book packs a vast amount of information into one inexpensively-priced volume. While it may be aimed at the younger military enthusiast, take a look at it if you come across it in your local bookshop. You may find this visual dictionary to be a useful general reference work.

The Reviewing Stand

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The Visual Dictionary of Military Uniforms
The Fall of Napoleon
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