Thematic Byzantine Cavalry

    The following are Crusader figures from their Byzantine range. From time to time I add a 12 unit group of cavalry to the collection as eventually I aim to have around 160 plus figures. The reason is due to the make up of the Byzantine Army of the era of 925-1025 AD where depending on the campaign utilization their make up could vary greatly. While fighting in the Balkans and the terrain a large Infantry contingent would be required while in the campaigns against the Arabs (often in countering Arab raids) large cavalry forces would be needed. For Thematic cavalry units I prefer to only utilize a common shield pattern/color while keeping the tunics non uniformed. I also like to use some bow armed figures within the unit but will add during this period one could question for the lesser trained and utilized formations would just regular lance arm formations without the bow contingents be more realistic? As I prefer a variety look I always include both and naturally on  the table top one could call them either a dual armed formation or solely a lance armed formation. Eventually, I will post some thoughts on the formation, equipment, fighting style and battle of this period with a special emphasis on the reign of Basil II as he restored the Byzantine Empire to its most formidable position that it had not been in centuries.