As you probably know. French regiments were much bigger than Civil War regiments with between 2-4 maneuver battalions. In the early stages of the Napoleonic Wars, each battalion carried colors but I think this got dropped down to one flag per regiment either by 1812 or after it. Certainly, the French regiments for the 100 Days had only one flag and the model 1815 flags were stripped down versions of the Model 1812 flags (less embroidery and devices).

By the same token, the eagles of 1815 were less ornate and one leg is raised and the beak is more closed than the 1812 eagles.

I doubt that they ever went in with eagles only as the flags that bore the battle honors (only for regiments in battles where Napoleon himself commanded by the way) were also pretty sacred to the troops.

Speaking of art, the Kurz & Allison prints are a hoot for whacked out flags!

Greg Biggs