Miguel de Alava Salamanca Chicken Mug

Miguel de Alava is one of the most interesting characters of the Napoleonic Wars. After beginning his career as a naval officer and fighting with the Franco-Spanish fleet at Trafalgar, Alava later transferred to the Spanish army. In 1808, he supported the national uprising against French rule and joined the Duke of Wellington's staff, becoming a close friend.

In 1815, as Spanish ambassador to King Louis XVIII of France, Alava attached himself to Wellington during the Hundred Days. He was at Wellington's side during the Battle of Waterloo but was uninjured. Alava was thus one of very few men who were present at both Trafalgar and Waterloo.

This mug design makes reference to an episode of the Battle of Salamanca in 1812. Alava was next to Wellington when the British commander saw that a gap had opened in the French line, discarded a chicken leg that he was eating and is supposed to have said, "By God that'll do!" or "Mon cher Alava, Marmont est perdu!"

This design was made by Josh Provan, a history blogger and author who runs the Adventures in Historyland blog. The same design is also available as a poster.

Specifications and size

• High Gloss + Premium White Finish

• ORCA Coating

• Dishwasher and Microwave Safe

11oz Mug

• 3.7″H x 3.7″W x 3.2″D

• 10.2″ Circumference