Tuesday 22 January 2013

Ontoria Hussars

This is my first unit of cavalry for the First Carlist War, the Ontoria Hussars on the Carlist side. Here's what the Perry/Cairns book says about them: "200 strong, organised in 1838 by General Balmaseda as part of the Army of the North.  After the convention of Vergara [August 1839], he led his men to join Cabrera, and the unit joined the Aragonese division."  The Convention of Vergara was the agreement that formally ended the war, but the Carlist general Ramon Cabrera continued fighting and in 1840 led the remains of the Carlist forces under his command into France and exile.  Therefore, this is a pretty late unit, of limited use.  However, the uniform is very dashing and smart and according to the gentlemen on the Carlist Wars Yahoo group there is evidence that these troops carried "death's head" lance pennants.  This unit had an "elite" reputation, so all in all these chaps are rather fearsome.  At a ratio of 1:30/33 I thought 6 figures was enough for a unit of around 200 men.  I think most of my Spanish cavalry units will have 6 figures (rather like the AWI).  Perry Miniatures figures, of course.

6 figures. Painted August 2012.  Lance pennants and flag by Adolfo Ramos.






13 comments:

Greg Sapara said...

Outstanding work, Giles!!!

Sire Godefroy said...

I read Ontario, and to see American troops in 19th century Spain got me excited. Then I read again… ;-D
However, your paintjobs made up for that completely. A great looking unit!

Cheers
SG

Michael Awdry said...

Whilst the uniforms are superb, I was completely distracted by the horses - that dappled grey is outstanding!

Dalauppror said...

Stunning paint job Giles !

Love the horses, got realy catched by the eye of the brown one in the 3:rd pictures.

Base Size?

Best regards Michael

Silver Whistle said...

The figures,horses and flags are all superb and another quality unit for this growing collection of yours.

Furt said...

Beautiful!! I too love the dappled horse. I've been avoiding trying one myself and this just might be the inspiration I need.

Frank

http://adventuresinlead.blogspot.com.au/

Phyllion said...

Superb

AJ (Allan) Wright said...

They look quite smart in their pancake hats! Love the moustaches.

AJ

Paulalba said...

Fine fellows Giles!

Christopher(aka Axebreaker) said...

Super work Giles! As always real quality work!

Christopher

David said...

Excellent brushwork, as ever, Giles!

Rodger said...

Excellent painting Giles!!

Phil said...

Beautiful Hussars, stunning work!
Phil.