In an earlier post, I described plans to reorganise the late medieval collection reducing the number of armies by half while increasing the number of commands for each. On completion of the project, I would have double size armies for the Yorkist, Lancastrian (both IV/83a), French Ordonnance (IV/82b), Medieval German (IV/13d), Italian Condotta (IV/61) and Burgundian (IV/85b).
First phase of the project places the English armies on the work bench; each have at its core 1 x general (4Bd), 1 x currours (Cv), 4 x billmen (4Bd), 4 x archers (4Lb, 1 x guns (Art), 1 x Welsh (3Pk). The optional mounted knights, Irish and mercenaries will be added later.
Reorganising
Very
pleased that the exact number of figures to make 16 x 4Lb and 20 x 4Bd
(commander included) were collected, in some cases this meant cannibalising no
longer active armies. The French Ordonnance (/82a) surrendered its longbow, but
will see an upgrade to the “b” sub-list.
Repainting/touch-ups
Figures in
livery are kept to a maximum of two per element, giving them a ‘rough and
ready’ appearance. As both armies have a similar composition and appearance, the
standards and banners they carry will be the sole means to differentiate the
two. These are interchangeable, as needed to play a particular scenario. Using the
collision course option for deployment, the third column can represent an “allied”
contingent making their non-appearance deemed treacherous.
Standards and Banners
The boardgame “Kingmaker” will be used to drive the campaigns diplomacy and politics, this may result in a non-historical alignment of nobles. Sourcing information standards and banners is not difficult and the boardgame supplies the heraldry for 24 nobles, making this a good start. Long tailed standards will identify the commanders and, in the case, when fewer nobles appear in the armies, then generic flags with the white or red rose can be used.
Update 16-07-2024
Standards and banners are done and will be cut and shaped for latter use. Others will be added as the research continues to find new allies.
Recommended
viewing:
The Causes
of the Wars of the Roses (History Hit)
