Thursday 13 June 2024

Refurbishing the collection

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of figures to make 16 x 4Lb and 20 x 4Bd (commander included) were collected, in some cases this meant cannibalising no longer active armies.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)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_c_RBFEHeg