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Raimondo Montecuccoli Leads The Army of the Holy Roman Empire At the Battle of Egra

This rare battle plan illustrates the imperial army of Leopold I, Holy Roman Emperor, positioned at Egra (modern-day Cheb, Czech Republic) on August 21, 1673, under the command of Raimondo Montecuccoli. The deployment was part of the Franco-Dutch War (1672–1678), a broader European conflict in which the Holy Roman Empire joined the Dutch and Spanish in resisting French expansion under Louis XIV. Montecuccoli, a veteran of numerous campaigns, was a key figure in defending the Empire's eastern territories and countering French incursions into the Rhineland. 

The Imperial forces are arranged into two primary lines of heavy infantry regiments, identified by their commanders, including General Lesle, General Wertmüller, and General Caprara, with Montecuccoli himself centrally positioned. Cavalry units, including those under General Storch and the Gerzi Dragoon Regiment, are placed strategically to protect the flanks. The artillery, commanded by General Bader, is positioned behind the infantry, ensuring fire support.

The second line contains additional regiments under commanders such as Prince Pio, the Duke of Bournuilla, and General Caprara, reinforcing the front. Notably, Lorraine's forces are also present, indicating the alliance between the Habsburgs and the Duchy of Lorraine in opposing French aggression. These formations demonstrate a balanced combination of infantry, cavalry, and artillery, designed to withstand potential assaults from the numerically superior French forces. 

The battle plan also depicts the surrounding landscape in remarkable detail, showcasing a patchwork of cultivated fields, roads, and a fortified town—likely Egra—in the lower section. The presence of coaches and supply trains indicates logistical planning, crucial for sustaining the army in the field. Small villages and a prominent church serve as reference points, anchoring the army's position within the broader terrain.

A skirmish or military engagement appears in the lower right corner, where a cavalry detachment, labeled "S.M.I. Imp." (Sacrae Maiestatis Imperialis), is engaging enemy forces, likely French or allied troops. This suggests the Imperial army was actively maneuvering in response to enemy movements, maintaining a flexible defensive posture. 

The engraving is framed by ornate laurel wreaths and Imperial insignia, symbolizing the Habsburg military prestige. The double-headed eagle of the Holy Roman Empire is prominently featured, reinforcing the Emperor’s authority. These embellishments elevate the map beyond a mere tactical illustration, presenting it as a statement of power and strategic preparedness. 

Rarity

The plan is extremely rare. 

We were unable to locate any other references to the plan.