Remembering the Papal Zouaves Who Fought at the Battle of Le Mans (1871)

Bataille d'Auvours by Lionel Royer

Pictured is a painting of the Battle of Le Mans (sometimes called the Battle of Auvours) during the Franco-Prussian War on January 10-12, 1871, by renowned French artist Lionel Royer (1852-1926). The canvas immortalizes a Battalion of Papal Zouaves, the Volunteers of the West, led by Col. Boiscuillé (center missing arm). During the fray, the Zouaves saved Gen. Antoine Chanzy's (on horse) artillery.

As the other regiments fell into confusion, Generals Collin and Goujard implored the Papal Zouaves to preserve the honour of France—the Zouaves advanced. As they pressed forward, a soldier from one of the confused battalions exclaimed, "Here are the Priests who are going to be killed, good riddance!"

To which the brave Zouaves replied, "We are going to show how the French can die!"

They made good on their word: out of 440 Papal Zouaves, only 85 returned unwounded! 

Another notable person depicted is Marquis de Coislin (bottom right, white bearded man), a noble Volunteers of the West NCO.

Our Lady of Pontmain, ora pro nobis!

By Brendan Cassell (Papal Zouave History @PapalZouaveUS)