This kit includes:
- 12 separate bodies (comprising captain, hornblower and standard bearer)
- 12 separate horses (some with barding)
- 1 separate lance
- 1 separate shield
All models are supplied both Pre-Supported and Unsupported in 28mm scale STLs and LYS files.
13th century Lithuanian Nobles (or Early Bajorai) from the time of the Prussian Crusade -
The Bajorai were a class of lesser nobility in the Grand Duchy of Lithuania during the 13th century. They were landowners who held small estates and were granted certain privileges by the Grand Duke in exchange for military service and other duties. The term "Bajorai" is the Lithuanian equivalent of the Polish "Bojarzy" and the Russian "Boyars," though in the Lithuanian context, they were of a lower rank compared to their more powerful counterparts in Russia and Poland. They were part of the Lithuanian nobility, occupying a lower tier compared to higher-ranking magnates and dukes. The Bajorai owned smaller plots of land, which were typically inherited and passed down through generations. Their primary role was to serve in the military, providing soldiers for the Grand Duke's army and participating in military campaigns. In return for their service, they were granted privileges such as tax exemptions and the right to administer their lands autonomously. Over time, they became an integral part of the political and social structure of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, playing a role in local governance and the administration of the Grand Duke's policies at the local level.
Mounted combat was a common and essential aspect of medieval warfare, and the Bajorai, like many other noble classes in Europe, were skilled horsemen. Training was rigorous, involving mastery of horseback riding and the use of various weapons while mounted. This included skills like mounted archery, influenced by the neighboring steppe people, and the use of lances in charges. The ability to fight on horseback was closely tied to their economic status, as owning and maintaining horses and equipment required substantial resources.
Lamellar armor was a type of body armor that was commonly used in various regions, including Eastern Europe and the Eurasian steppe, and it is likely that the Bajorai might have used this kind of armor in the 13th century. Lamellar armor is made from small, overlapping plates (lamellae) that are laced together in horizontal rows. This type of armor provides a good balance of protection and flexibility, making it suitable for cavalry who needed to maintain mobility while fighting on horseback. The use of lamellar armor in Lithuania and among the Bajorai was likely influenced by interactions with neighboring regions and cultures. The Grand Duchy of Lithuania had extensive contacts and conflicts with various peoples, including the Rus', Tatars, and other steppe nomads, who were known for using lamellar armor. The practical benefits of this armor would have made it an attractive choice for the Bajorai, who needed effective protection without sacrificing mobility.
In this interpretation many of them are wearing the "Slonim helmet". The Slonim helmet, found in the region of modern-day Belarus and dated to the XIII century, reflects the influence of both Western and Eastern military traditions. Its design shows similarities to helmets used by the Rus' and nomadic steppe peoples, indicating the cultural and military exchanges that occurred through trade, conflict, and migration. This helmet has a rounded top made of different rounded metal plates, as well as an iconic facemask. It would also have been worn with an aventail attached to the brim, in the typical northern and eastern fashion.
