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HaT

Set 8049

Alexander's Allied Cavalry

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All figures are supplied unpainted    (Numbers of each pose in brackets)
Stats
Date Released 2003
Contents 12 mounted figures and 12 horses
Poses 4 poses, 2 horse poses
Material Plastic (Medium Consistency)
Colours Tan
Average Height 24 mm (= 1.73 m)

Review

The heavy cavalry of Alexander the Great was made up of Companion, Thessalian and Allied cavalry, with the last of these elements being depicted in this set. Unfortunately there is little evidence for these men, who were provided by the Greek city states as part of their obligations under the Corinthian League.

The four figures in this set depict, from left to right, Greek, Greek, Thracian and Paionian troops. All the poses are very similar, but clearly with one or two representatives from each type there is no scope for variety. HaT have always aimed at the wargamer market, so one pose of each is probably adequate.

All the figures seem appropriately dressed, given our lack of knowledge about the subject. The Greeks wear cavalry-style boots and have armour of either classic linen-covered or 'muscle' style. Their helmets carry the classic crest and side feathers common in the Hellenistic world. The Thracian appears to be unarmoured and is most easily recognisable by his Thracian-style helmet. The Paionian contingent were part of the Thracian cavalry, but seemed to have worn a costume closer to the Greek fashion. This unit is most notable for having helped save a very dangerous situation for Alexander when he was caught crossing a river by a strong Persian column.

The two horses wear saddlecloths, one of which is decorated. Again we know little about the appearance of these beasts, but the horses provided here match the general fashion in Greece at the time and therefore seem suitable.

All the men carry javelins or spears. These are provided separately and must be fitted into ring hands. However these fit very well and present no problems.

Another excellent sculpting effort from HaT with no flash and no accuracy flaws. Diorama builders may bemoan only getting one pose per type, but it does mean a wide range of cavalry can be depicted when used in conjunction with the associated sets.

Ratings

Historical Accuracy 10
Pose Quality 5
Pose Number 2
Sculpting 10
Mould 10

Further Reading
Books
"Armies of the Macedonian and Punic Wars" - Wargames Research Group - Duncan Head - 9780950029948
"Greece and Rome at War" - Greenhill - Peter Connolly - 9781853673030
"The Army of Alexander the Great" - Osprey (Men-at-Arms Series No.148) - Nick Sekunda - 9780850455397
"Warfare in Ancient Greece" - Sutton - Tim Everson - 9780750933186

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