The Foundry 28mm
"Darkest Africa" Figures

Armorer's Forge Review

review by Mike Demana

One of the newest lines from The Foundry is Mark Copplestone's "Darkest Africa." The first set of figures in the line covers European expeditions and Arab caravans that plied their trade in the continent. I received four natives for review: a bearer, a tribesman weilding a bow, one with open hands (meant for spear and shield?) and an Askari.

The bearer wears only a loincloth and carries a European-style chest atop his head. This is a clean, simple figure with next-to-no flash. His musculature is well-developed and proportional. Others in the line (not sent) are shown in literature carrying ivory tusks, baskets, rolled bundles and various crates. These will make scenic additions to 19th century camps.

The bowman is one of eight poses. The quiver comes detached, but with a peg on it and a corresponding hole in the figure's side to glue it. He also wears only a loincloth and is crouched, bracing with his feet in a pose similar to a modern fencer. Detail is clean and simple.

The empty-handed tribesman wears a loincloth and holds his right hand near his hip. The fingers form a circle to slide a spear or other weapon (not provided) through. He has a great, shouting expression on his face.

The final figure is a skirted and turbaned askari carrying a rifle. He is the best of the bunch, seeming to be peering into the darkness looking for enemies. Detail and musculature is great. There are numerous variations of this post in the line. Foundry figures are available in Ohio from The Foundry Ltd, 1549 Marview Dr., Westlake, OH 44145.

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