François-Henri de Montmorency, duc de Luxembourg, French general (b. 1628)
François Henri de Montmorency-Bouteville, Duke of Piney-Luxembourg (8 January 1628 – 4 January 1695), widely recognized simply as Luxembourg, was an exceptionally gifted French general and a highly distinguished Marshal of France. Born into one of France's most ancient and powerful noble families, he emerged as a leading military figure during the latter half of the 17th century, an era marked by intense European conflicts.
A trusted comrade and the eventual strategic successor to the legendary Louis II de Bourbon, Prince de Condé – often hailed as "the Great Condé" – Luxembourg assimilated and evolved the offensive tactical principles of his mentor. Despite not possessing an imposing physical stature, being described as a slight man with a hunchback, his strategic brilliance and audacious command style cemented his reputation as one of France's greatest military minds. His career is particularly notable for an extraordinary and unparalleled achievement: he famously never lost a single battle in which he held overall command.
The "Upholsterer of Notre-Dame": A Unique Nickname
Luxembourg earned the colourful and enduring nickname, "The Upholsterer of Notre-Dame" (Le Tapissier de Notre-Dame), due to his consistent and overwhelming victories against France's enemies. This moniker was a testament to the sheer number of enemy standards, colours, and flags he captured in battle. These trophies, torn from the defeated armies, were traditionally hung as decorations within the grand nave of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. The sheer volume of captured banners under Luxembourg's command was so immense that it was quipped he could effectively "upholster" or completely cover the cathedral's interior, vividly illustrating his military prowess and the decisive nature of his triumphs.
A Strategic Mastermind of 17th-Century Warfare
Luxembourg's military career spanned an era of significant evolution in European warfare, characterized by the rise of professional armies, complex logistics, and sophisticated siegecraft. He demonstrated exceptional leadership and tactical ingenuity across several major conflicts, solidifying his place as one of the most accomplished commanders of the early modern period. His most celebrated campaigns include:
- The Franco-Dutch War (1672–1678): During this extensive conflict, Luxembourg played a pivotal role, particularly in the later stages. His strategic acumen was instrumental in several engagements, contributing significantly to French gains.
- The War of the Grand Alliance (1688–1697): This war, also known as the Nine Years' War, saw Luxembourg at the zenith of his command. He repeatedly outmanoeuvred and decisively defeated the allied forces, often led by King William III of England (then Stadtholder William III of Orange).
Among his most resounding victories during the War of the Grand Alliance were:
- The Battle of Fleurus (1690): Here, Luxembourg achieved a masterful flanking manoeuvre against a larger allied army led by Prince Waldeck, securing a crushing victory that showcased his tactical genius.
- The Battle of Steenkerque (1692): Despite being surprised by an allied attack, Luxembourg rapidly organized his forces and turned the tide, inflicting a severe defeat on William III's army.
- The Battle of Neerwinden (also known as Landen) (1693): This was perhaps his greatest tactical triumph, where he comprehensively routed William III's forces in a pitched battle, effectively crippling the allied land campaign for the year and earning him immense prestige.
His unbroken record of never losing a battle while in supreme command is a rare distinction, especially considering the frequent and large-scale engagements of 17th-century European warfare. This legacy underscores his exceptional ability to adapt, innovate, and inspire his troops to victory against formidable opponents.
Frequently Asked Questions about Marshal Luxembourg
- Who was François Henri de Montmorency-Bouteville?
- He was a highly successful French general and Marshal of France, active in the latter half of the 17th century. Known primarily as the Duke of Piney-Luxembourg, or simply Luxembourg, he was renowned for his tactical brilliance and an undefeated record in battles where he held command.
- Why was Marshal Luxembourg called "The Upholsterer of Notre-Dame"?
- This unique nickname, "Le Tapissier de Notre-Dame," was given to him because of the immense number of enemy battle standards and flags he captured during his numerous victories. These captured trophies were traditionally hung in Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, and it was said he captured so many that he could effectively "upholster" the entire cathedral with them.
- What were Luxembourg's most significant military victories?
- His most notable victories occurred during the War of the Grand Alliance. Key engagements include the decisive Battle of Fleurus (1690), the strategically challenging Battle of Steenkerque (1692), and his tactical masterpiece at the Battle of Neerwinden (1693), all of which resulted in significant defeats for the Allied forces.