The Mamelukes were a powerful political class that had ruled Egypt since the mid 13th century, and although by the time Napoleon invaded Egypt in 1798 they were nominally at least subjects of the Ottoman Empire, they still constituted an elite in that country's army. As the French invasion got into greater difficulties many Mamelukes were drafted to fight for them, and when French armies were finally expelled in 1801 a small number were taken to France and in time incorporated into Napoleon’s Consular Guard. From then until the end of the Empire the Mamelukes were the most colourful and exotic of Napoleon's troops, and while always small in number they fought in many campaigns from Lisbon to Moscow.
This item is in Very Good condition. There is shelf wear of the box. As always, the kit shown in the photos is the one you will receive.