More from Bruno Mugnai

Bruno Mugnai concludes his detailed examination of the military forces of the German states during the early reign of Louis XIV with a volume that serves as yet another authoritative reference. Wars and Soldiers in the Early Reign of Louis XIV, Volume 7 is the final instalment of a trilogy focused on the armies of the German states and is a distinguished work yet again demonstrating Mugnai’s dedication, refined narrative style, and exceptional artistic talent. As with the preceding volumes, it is part of the ‘Century of the Soldier’ series.

This volume provides a detailed examination of the structures, uniforms, tactics, and evolution of German military contingents between 1655 and 1690. The author covers strategic, political, and cultural contexts to offer a comprehensive portrayal of the military landscape during this period. Well-known principalities and numerous smaller states are documented with detail and historical accuracy. I found the section covering the history, events and armed forces of the Duchy of Lorraine particularly interesting. The appendices provide us with orders of battle and almost forensic details of German regiments, squadrons and companies between1657 and 1690, including information relating to their service, and where known, uniforms. There was certainly a lucrative and fascinating trade in hiring out regiments, even entire armies to employers such as the Dutch, the Empire and Venice in the Morea and elsewhere.

What distinguishes this work further is Mugnai’s original artwork, which enhances the text without overshadowing it. His illustrations are rendered with precision and historical accuracy and offer invaluable visual insight into the period's uniforms and equipment of some of the minor German players. In all there 10 colour plates, 60 black and white illustrations and four maps. These images complement the narrative and do manage to elevate it, serving both educational and aesthetic purposes.

This book is like its predecessors indispensable for historians, reenactors, wargamers, and enthusiasts of late seventeenth century Europe. Mugnai set a benchmark with each of the preceding volumes in this extensive series in how military history can be both rigorously academic and visually compelling, and this continues with this latest volume. His ability to combine authoritative research with engaging prose and high-quality visuals is unparalleled in the genre.

In summary, Wars and Soldiers in the Early Reign of Louis XIV, Volume 7 is not merely another book in the series; it is the culmination of an impressive amount of work researching each and every book in this fantastic collection.


ISBN: 978-1804517-49-9 197 pages, Paperback