Pavlovsky Grenadiers, and the story of their Mitre Cap (Review: Russian Grenadier LEGO-Compatible minifigure from Aliexpress).

In the annals of military history, few units have captured the imagination quite like the Pavlosky Grenadiers, a Russian infantry regiment renowned for their distinctive and antiquated headgear – the mitre cap. While the early 19th century witnessed significant changes in military attire across Europe, the Pavlosky Grenadiers stood as a bastion of tradition by retaining their iconic mitre caps long after other units had transitioned to more modern headgear. In this blog post, we delve into the reasons behind this steadfast commitment to tradition, exploring the historical context and the cultural significance of the Pavlosky Grenadiers' mitre caps, as well as reviewing the excellent LEGO-Compatible Figure found on Aliexpress. You can follow this affiliate link to buy him right now, or start a regiment with a pack of 10! 

The Pavlosky Grenadiers, officially known as the Pavlovsky Regiment, traced their origins back to the reign of Peter the Great in the late 17th century. Throughout their history, they had maintained a reputation for discipline, valor, and loyalty to the Russian crown. Much of this reputation was tied to their unique uniform, most notably the mitre cap.

The mitre cap, a tall and ornate headdress, was originally adopted by grenadier regiments in the early 18th century. It featured elaborate embroidery, often depicting the regiment's heraldic symbols, and was adorned with feathers and a brass front plate. While other military units gradually modernized their uniforms, the Pavlosky Grenadiers remained committed to preserving this distinctive headpiece, even as the early 19th century ushered in significant changes in military attire.

The early 19th century witnessed profound changes in European military fashion, largely driven by the influence of Napoleon Bonaparte's Grand Army. Under Napoleon's leadership, the French army adopted more practical and functional uniforms, replacing traditional garb with simpler, streamlined attire designed for ease of movement and supply logistics. These changes not only reflected the practical requirements of modern warfare but also signaled a break from the traditions of the past.

In contrast, the Pavlosky Grenadiers continued to march in their antiquated mitre caps, standing as a symbol of Russian military tradition in the face of a rapidly changing world. But why did they choose to do so?

The mitre cap was more than just a piece of headgear; it represented a deep-seated cultural and historical connection for the Pavlosky Grenadiers. For them, the mitre cap was a symbol of their unit's long and storied history, a tangible link to the regiment's founding in the 17th century.

Moreover, the mitre cap served as a source of identity and pride for the soldiers of the Pavlovsky Regiment. Donning these distinctive caps set them apart from other units, fostering a sense of camaraderie and belonging. To the Pavlosky Grenadiers, abandoning their mitre caps would have been tantamount to severing their ties to their regiment's rich heritage.

While the practicality of the mitre cap in modern warfare was questionable at best, the Pavlosky Grenadiers resisted adopting more functional headgear. The resistance to change was not only rooted in tradition but also in a sense of loyalty to their commanders and fellow soldiers. The officers of the regiment, many of whom had risen through the ranks, were often staunch advocates for preserving tradition, and their influence played a crucial role in maintaining the mitre caps.

The Russian Army phased out the mitre cap following the Battle of Austerlitz in 1805. However, these stubborn Pavlovsky Grenadiers were still wearing it at the Battle of Friedland in 1807. Following the battle, noting their bravery, Tsar Alexander allowed them to continue to wear their mitre caps. 

The figure we are showing here is from the 1812 line of Russian Napoleonic Figures in 1812, so the above blog post explains why he is still proudly wearing the mitre seven years after they were phased out.

In terms of the rest of the model - as usual from this brand, the printing is excellent across the front of the torso, sides and back, on the arms and legs. The model comes equipped with a musket and bayonet. The mitre however, is very much the standout piece of the set!

The Pavlosky Grenadiers' decision to retain their mitre caps long after 1805 was a testament to their unwavering commitment to tradition, identity, and the preservation of their historical legacy. In an era marked by rapid military innovation and evolving uniforms, the Pavlosky Grenadiers proudly wore their mitre caps, standing as a symbol of continuity in a changing world.

You can purchase this model by following the affiliate links below, and in doing so, support this blog!

Russian pack of four figures (Hussar, Grenadier, Line Infantry and Foot Guardhttps://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DCCiWVN

Russian Pavolosky Grendadier (Individual) https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DkDGpyB Russian Pavlovsky Grenadier (Pack of 10) https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DdzWpEj