As well as being Emperor of the French it is often forgotten, or simply overlooked, that Napoleon was also King of Italy - a state that essentially comprised all Italy north of the Kingdom of Naples.

The Author has been fascinated by early military flags for as long as he can remember and made his first notes on those of the English Civil War at the age of fifteen! This fascination has never faded and was only enhanced by a long association with re-enacting the period. Over the years he has written a number of short studies of particular colours as well as three short studies of the Colours of Foot. He is proud to live in London with his partner Mary as guests of the cats who allow them to share it.