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Description of the Battle Plan of Wilhelmsthal (1762)

This intricately engraved battle plan depicts the Battle of Wilhelmsthal, fought on June 24, 1762, during the Seven Years’ War (1756–1763). '

The map provides an extensive topographical representation of the battlefield, with detailed troop movements and positions of the opposing forces—the Anglo-Allied army under Duke Ferdinand of Brunswick against the French forces commanded by the Marshals Comte d’Estrées and Prince de Soubise. The elaborate contour shading highlights the rugged terrain, forests, and villages that played a crucial role in the battle.

Decorative cartouches frame the map, with the title inscribed in an elaborate Rococo-style ornamentation, accompanied by military motifs such as cannons, banners, and weaponry. A large descriptive text box on the right provides a detailed narrative of the battle, outlining the movements of each army. Color-coded troop formations indicate infantry, cavalry, and artillery, allowing for a clear visualization of the battle’s strategic execution.

The army under the orders of His Serene Highness Duke Ferdinand assembled on June 18 at Brackel, from where it marched on the 20th to Borgholtz and on the 21st to Bühne, to occupy the camp between Corbecke and the heights of Teisfel. The vanguard under Lord Granby advanced on June 22 to Peckelsheim and on June 23 to Warburg, where it occupied the camp.

On June 24, at 2 AM, Lord Granby crossed the Dimel in three columns. The first moved through Brune and Zierenberg to seize Durrenberg, while the other two moved through Siebershausen and Schreckenberg. The French forces under Comte de Castries and Comte de Steinville attempted to hold their positions but were forced into retreat by the allied advance, culminating in a major victory for Duke Ferdinand.

By the end of the battle, over 6,000 French troops were lost, including 2,700 prisoners and 170 officers, and the allies captured 6 flags, 2 cannons, and an enemy standard. The French retreat to Cassel marked a decisive victory for the Anglo-Prussian forces in the Seven Years’ War, further weakening French influence in Germany.

The Battle of Wilhelmsthal was a decisive victory for the Anglo-Prussian-Hanoverian coalition, forcing the French into retreat and significantly weakening their position in Western Germany. This map, likely commissioned shortly after the battle, serves as both a military record and a commemorative artifact, celebrating Duke Ferdinand’s triumph.  

Rarity

The map is very rare on the market.