North Star continue to release new miniatures to support their 1866 Austro-Prussian War range, with the release this week of some Austrian Generals. We have been sent three mounted Generals, two with distinctive feathered hats and one in a forage cap.
I know it is becoming something of a cliché, but the detail on these figures is excellent. Buttons and even buttonholes are cast and clearly visible, facial features and hair are defined whilst the creases in the uniforms will be a gift to anyone painting with washes or contrast paints, as they are well recessed. This quality casting continues with the horses themselves, which are often overlooked when producing mounted figures, with many companies going for a one size fits all approach. Each of these horses is slightly different with good muscle tone and great definition on the mane and hooves. Even the bridle bits are cast in some detail.
Also included with this review is a sneak peek at the new Bavarian infantry, which are due for release shortly. These figures would come in at the slighter end of 28mm, meaning that although they measure nearly 30mm, they are quite fine and would be more in keeping with Perry Miniatures or Warlord than the heroic scale of Foundry. Again, detailing is excellent, with the figure wearing a forage cap and carrying full kit in an advancing pose.
North Star are setting a high bar with this new range in which the figures just keep getting better. I hope the quality of the miniatures will draw new players to this interesting period.
