From the fifth century various invaders or migrants from Germany set up a number of kingdoms in Britain and established what became known as the Anglo-Saxon culture. For the next six centuries they dominated the southern and eastern part of Britain, building a wealthy land despite the frequent attentions of Viking raids from the late eighth century. Famously their domination ended on the field of Senlac Hill in 1066, after which the Normans imposed their culture and customs.
This is the second set from Strelets called 'Anglo-Saxons', but unlike the first this one is themed specifically at recreating the Saxon shield wall. Although it only has 12 poses they are all of men holding their shield to their front while using a variety of weapons to defend their position. As a result all these figures can be lined up side-by-side, and with most standing side on to the enemy a very effective wall can indeed be created. 12 poses is enough to create a very mixed and irregular appearance, which is as it should be, and all the poses are perfectly suitable.
As with most medieval armies many of the troops were simply peasantry called out with basic weapons and perhaps little protection, so at first sight this set does not seem representative as most figures have armour. However it was usual practice to put the most heavily armoured troops in the front rank of the shield wall for obvious reasons, so these figures are a good selection. Most wear mail armour, although there are a couple that seem to wear quilted fabric which was a surprise. Almost all have helmets, which is fine, and the array of swords, axes and spears is OK too, with most men also wearing a seax or knife at their waist. The shields are all either round or kite-shaped and have a variety of designs and bosses, all of which look good.
Sculpting is reasonable with fair detail and some nice textures. Most of the figures are in one piece with their weapon and shield but a few need one or the other added. All the weapons (of which there is a surplus) fit into ring hands, although a small amount of filing is necessary to make the weapon fit. However all the shields fit very securely onto pegs on the figure, so no gluing is required anywhere.
Another nice set aimed at one particular aspect of warfare at the time which does the job very well.