POLISH WINGED HUSSARS

'' XVII A.D.".
Whatever your primary interest - the ancient world, Napoleon’s adventures etc – there can be no denying that these figures, and the men they represent, are a spectacular sight. The famous Polish winged hussars impressed almost everyone who saw them, and the terrifying effect of these men charging towards you with long lances and tall feathers can hardly be imagined today. Poland-Lithuania was a major power in the 17th century – the period covered by this set – so these men saw service in many battles against many foes, but are perhaps best remembered in the West for their triumph at the siege of Vienna in 1683.

Although winged hussars in Polish service can be dated to the later 16th century their appearance changed over time. This is apparent in the ‘wings’, the feathered decoration that most strikes the viewer. In the early part of the 17th century such wings were only attached to the saddle, but during the 1640s it seems some were connected to armour. This practice appears to have disappeared quickly, only to return with vigour in the 1670s. All the figures in this set have their wings attached to the back of their armour, making them best suited to the last quarter of the century, which includes Vienna of course. This was also the period when the hussars reached their peak, and thereafter began a long decline.

Inhoud:

• 16 figuren + 16 paarden.