Guernsey Foundry figures, available in the US from The Foundry, (440-871-4587 or fax 440-892-5887) 1549 Marview Dr., Westlake, OH 44145.

Bryan Ansell sent along some pre-production castings for his forthcoming "Darkest Africa" range. Unfortunately, they won't be available for a few more months. I have no numbers yet so will just generally describe them as bst I can, see the scan. According to Bryan these guys need hair, but they look pretty good to me with what hair they have.

There are three types of natives here those that could be Askari, Askari and natives. There are two Askari figures, one at the ready and one advancing, both have bayonets and look very Egyptian in their uniform. Four figures could be Askaris for German East Africa. But the uniforms for the German East African Askaris, though very varied, do not match the figures. What they could very well be, based on the muskets they are carrying, are native slavers. Three are at the ready and one advancing. One could be firing his shotgun while the other two at the ready have muskets, the advancing figure carries a carbine or short barrelled musket. These four figures are wearing three types of fez, two with knee length pants and all four with a thigh to knee length shirt belted at the waist.

There are three natives with muskets that could be considered slavers also. Two at the ready, different poses, and one firing. These figures are wearing a wrap-around piece of fabric rolled over and tucked in the front.

Then there are the seven natives with either spears (4) or bows (2) and no weapon (1). The no weapon native has one arm above his head as though he were carrying a load and wearing no clothes. While the othres have breech clouts. The four figures for spears, at least the position of their closed fist would appear to be for a spear could also be to hold a shield. Anyone of the natives with a possible spear also has an open hand for a war ax.

Generally speaking, these are some very much needed figures and hope that they will eventually number as least as many variants as the Victorian Bystanders/Wild West from the Foundry. The animation is very nicely done, the poses very superior to other African natives I have. Hopefully there will be a mad rush to purchase these figures when they become available as they are certainly needed, very useful, easy to paint and a great addition to your store of African materials. Almost anything to get out of the rut of Zulu/Sudan scenarios.Very highly recommended!!!

Other Reviews

Richard Houston Collection 25mm Colonials (figures)
Guernsey Foundry 25mm "Darkest Africa" range (figures)
Armies of the 16th Century (book)

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