Monday, January 16, 2012

New Project - Roman Heavy Infantry, Battle of Resaena 243 AD

My brain never stops planning projects and in the case of this little grouping I have chosen to continue my run of late Roman subjects. The two figures shown are SR-39 and SR-60, both Heavy Roman Infantrymen from Soldiers in similar and complimentary poses. This should be a fun little project.


The base I have chosen to use is a Ken Thomas burl base in an interesting shape that I have had around waiting for just such an occasion as this. Both figures are wielding long shafted spears that I would prefer to keep within the confines of the base to limit the possibility of damage. The shape of the base is such that depending on the positioning of the figures can both protect the figures and possibly draw the eyes of the viewer into the drama of the vignette.


The photo below shows the kit components prior to cleaning and assembly. Both are sculpted Laruccia and are masterfully detailed in every respect. As is usual for my figures all lance shafts will be replaced by brass rod including the small throwing spears that the top figure carries along with his shield in the left hand.


The Battle of Resaena was fought in 243 AD near Ceylanpinar Turkey, between Roman forces under Praetorian Prefect Timesitheus and a Sassanid Empire Persian Army under King Shapur I. King Shapur I is the subject of a very nice portrait figure also sculpted by Laruccia for Art Girona of Spain. I plan to paint this figure to be displayed alongside this pairing sometime in the near future.

The battle was part of a larger campaign ordered by Emperor Gordian III (Emperor 238-244) in an attempt to reclaim territories lost in previous years during the never-ending conflict between the many claimants to the Roman throne. The Romans were victorious but Timesitheus fell ill and died shortly afterwards and was replaced by Philip the Arab. Gordian's troops eventually revolted due to lack of pay, purportedly killing Gordian and raising Philip the Arab as Emperor (Emperor from 244 -249). Various versions of events exist but it is known that Philip completed the campaign prior to returning to Rome.

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