Ancient Mercenaries
Most tribes in the Ancient world fought amongst themselves and periodically invaded and raided their neighbours. Occasionally, times of peace left many armed menfolk with nothing to do. Groups of them would go to neighbouring nations and offer their armed services as mercenaries for glory and fortune.
Thracians
Herodotos said that the Thracians would have conquered the world if they had only combined, but they enjoyed fighting each other too much to bother. Most Thracians are armed with javelins, but what they are really know for are their curves swords, called Rhomphias. These wicked weapons could slice off enemy limbs easily.
These Thracians are from Xyston. They are taller and bulkier than most other 15mm figures, closer to 18mm. Mounted three to a base, it is not as obvious.
Cretan Archers
Cretan archers in close formation can give a Greek Hoplite army an added dimension of long range archery.
These Xyston figures are absolutely beautiful.
Rhodian Slingers
Some more beautiful Xyston figures. These are Rhodian slighters with floppy hats.
Ancient Spanish
Spanish Scutarii are open ordered infantry that fight with oval shields and their deadly gladius. The gladius so impressed the Romans that they adopted them.
Spanish Caetratii are the light infantry of the Ancient Spanish forces. They use javelins and round shields.
The Spanish figures are from Corvus Belli. They are noticably shorter than Essex Miniatures.
Samnites
Up till 200B.C. the name Samnite was synonymous with the term Gladiator. They have a fierce reputation for individual combat and kept the Romans out of southern Italy for centuries. Mostly armoured, they were expert fighters in rough terrain.
These figures are Italians from Gladiator Games. They are comparable with Essex in style and size.
Slaves and Pack horses
Every army needs its supply line. Where available, armies would use pack animals and slaves to carry their supplies for them. These are Essex Miniature figures.
© 2004-2006 Michael Sng Woei Shyong. All Rights Reserved.