See Napoleon's Stuffed Horse 'Le Vizir' at Les Invalides

Amidst the uniforms and guns, one exhibit often stops visitors in their tracks: a small, grey stuffed horse. This is Le Vizir, one of Napoleon Bonaparte’s favorite chargers.

A Royal Gift

Le Vizir was an Arab stallion gifted to Napoleon in 1802 by the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire. He accompanied the Emperor on significant campaigns, including the battles of Jena and Eylau.

• The Brand: He bears the Imperial brand (a crowned 'N') on his haunch.

Why is he Stuffed?

Unlike his famous counterpart Marengo (whose skeleton is in London), Vizir followed Napoleon even into exile on Elba. He died in France in 1826. Fearing the horse’s remains would be desecrated by royalists, a taxidermist friend preserved the skin. For years, the stuffed horse was hidden in an attic, then moved to a museum basement, before finally finding a place of honor at the Musée de l'Armée.

Restoring the Emperor's Steed

In recent years, Le Vizir underwent a major restoration. Years of humidity had damaged the taxidermy. Crowd-funding campaigns helped restore his coat and posture, so he now looks ready to charge once more.

You can find him in the Modern Department (1643-1870), not far from the exhibits on the Napoleonic campaigns. It’s a quirky, slightly macabre, but fascinating connection to the daily life of the Emperor.