I’m not sure if this is the correct place for this, but feel free to move where it should be. I’m modeling Metal Modeles’ Grenadier A Pied De La Garde En Manteau (love these titles) into a Chasseur. I changed the position of the head, which leaves a gap between the soldiers neck and the coat collar. There needs to be obvious filling and blending done. My question is would the collar be of stiff enough material to maintain its present shape, or should the collar be adjusted to lay closer to the neck. Thanks for any advice.

Kurt

Maybe this photo will help?

svt,
Actually it does. I had figured the collar would be stiff enough to maintain it’s formal shape. I’ll have to flesh out the neck to the proper shape and see how things look, and then decide.

Kurt

I suspect that the answer is 'yes and no'

It seems to depend on three factors: the cut of the collar (according to Crowdy some were cut square/closed at the neck, others open so the stock/cravat showed); the stiffness of the collar (most refs show reinforcement/stitching, but some flexibility); the conditions (notably 'fully 'buttoned up' parade or in the field).

So, if fully fastened there would be movement whereas if the front it open the back of the collar would tend to stay put.

Either way, don't forget that it wouldn't be bare neck underneath: they wore a shirt, a veste/waistcoat and a stock (black or white for parades) around the neck.

It would seem reasonable that in the heat of action the collar would be worn open.

The following illustrate aspects of the above:

Fully closed collars using hook and eyes (inc a detail showing hooks/eyes on the habit) and open fronted (one a contemporary print of drummers showing exaggerated shirt collars and stocks):

Neil, Thanks for the pictures. You're a goldmine of info. This a Manteau, so hopefully it would be of heavier material especially for the Garde and therefore stiffer. Now I am guessing he would have his normal uniform jacket underneath and therefore it’s normal collar would be showing. But we all know what “Assume” actually means, an A.. of you and me.

Kurt

.... oops: missed the 'en manteau' bit

Can't find many refs or photos of greatcoats and they weren't officially standardised until 1812. Even then I get the impression (ass-u-a-me?) that they varied a lot in terms of colour (officially beige but sources suggest variations, eg blue for the garde, grey the young garde etc).



I think this gives a good impression.