1798 Rebellion Project Part 18: The Completed French Force

 I got lots of painting done this week. So much so that my lead mountain is home to only two figures! I've finished the last models for the French list.

First up is General Jean-Joseph Amable Humbert. Before the French Revolution, Humbert worked as a dealer in animal skins, but rose to become a general. In August 1798, he landed at Killala with the 70th Demi Brigade. The "Republic of Connacht" was then proclaimed by the French, with John Moore (no relation to the British General) as its president. Humbert had initial success at the Battle of Castlebar, and intended to advance into the Irish Midlands. However, his small force surrendered against impossible odds at the Battle of Ballinamuck.

Humbert was taken as a prisoner of war and repatriated. He continued to fight for the French army, and was sent to Haiti to suppress the revolution. Quite ironic considering his activities in Ireland! Humbert was accused of looting while in Haiti and returned to France. He joined rebel movements in both New Spain and Argentina, before fighting in the Battle of New Orleans in 1815. He spent the rest of his life as a school teacher. Like many figures in this period, Humbert is a fascinating character. I'd love to see a detailed biography of his life in print.

That cartridge box caused a lot of headaches

I put together some Shock markers to go along with the force. 

A group photo of the full army:

I had some leftover figures from the British force that I wanted to get painted. Here are the Monaghan Militia Light Company. 

"U wot m8?"

Finally, I made a small holy well. These are very common in Ireland, and have many superstitions attached to them. Although their veneration is entirely Christian nowadays, evidence suggests that bodies of water were important ritual sites in pagan Celtic culture. It's not a substantial piece of terrain, it's just a nice bit of decoration. 

The wall is made of pieces of gravel. The water is gloss varnish. 

I built up the earth texture around the edge to give a stronger illusion of depth.

The Wicklow general Joseph Holt is currently on my painting table. He's another truly interesting character and I can't wait to finish painting him. After that I'll move on to the next stage of the project - artillery!

Go dtí an chéad uair eile, beir bua!