Strelets M048 1/72 Medieval Medieval Russian Militia in Summer Dress

In the lands of the Medieval Rus an armed force would come from any of three sources. The elite were the druzhina, the professional knights who formed the retinues of the lords and were equipped with the latest armour and weapons, as well as usually being mounted. Below these were the urban militia, drawn from able-bodied men living in the towns, and at the bottom of the social ladder were the peasant levy. This set depicts the urban militia, which was almost exclusively infantry and had not been a significant force until its rise during the 11th century, when it became second only to the druzhina. The militia was composed of freemen of the towns, and could only be mustered by their administrators, so were not at the beck and call of the local prince. The men took their equipment from a central arsenal, the quality of which would therefore depend on the wealth, and inclination, of the town itself rather than the individual’s means. On occasion surrounding areas were also used to recruit men, but this was rare and such men were poorly provided for.

Specifications

• Contents: 48 figures
• Poses: 12 poses
• Material: Plastic (Medium Consistency)