The announcement of Gorgon’s first original miniature line probably has some of you wondering what exactly the Army of Lars Porsenna will look like in 28mm. Shortly, we should have the first pictures of the range.
I am, personally, very excited about the new range. Since I saw my first Etruscan tomb pieces at the Field Museum as a kid, I was intrigued by this mysterious culture. I became interested in their society, religion and, obviously, their military equipment and organization.
With the help of a few friends and fellow WAB enthusiasts, I compiled a list of what specific figures we’d require to reconstruct an early Etruscan army. This list, along with a large collection of images, was sent on to sculptor Steve Saleh.
The Models
The First Class hoplites are made up of Etruria’s more wealthy citizens. They are equipped in a similar fashion as their contemporary Greek counterparts, with bronze or linen cuirass and hoplon shield, and fight in the same phalanx formation. These phalanxes would typically form the center of the Etruscan battle-line.
The Second and Third Class spearmen are more lightly armored and would form the wings of the army. These units may have been made up of Etruscans of more modest means as well as Italic allies.
The Fourth Class troops would act in much the same role as the Greek peltast, armed with sling, javelin or bow, they would provide the skirmish screen for the main battle-line.
The Etruscan infantry of the period would be supported by both heavy and light cavalry as well as a corp of chariotry. These light, two-horse chariots were theoretically quite maneuverable on the battle field.
Releases
Over the next months, Gorgon Miniatures plans on releasing the Army of Lars Porsenna in a series of waves. The first releases will focus on the heart of the Etruscan army, the First Class hoplites and their supporting Second and Third Class spearmen. Chariots and cavalry will follow.