Nikephorian Byzantine (963-1071)

This is the army that brings the Byzantine Empire to its apogee, commanded by three of its most brilliant emperors, Nikephore II Phocas (963-969), Jean Tzimiskès 969-976) and Basil II (976-1025).

Syria, Crete and Cyprus are taken back from the Arab dynasties. Basil II, the "Bulgar Slayer" wages a merciless war against his northern neighbours that leads to their destruction in 1014.

Decline however quickly set in. The Normans begin systematic conquests in southern Italy and Sicily from 1030, with rapid success : the province is almost totally lost a decade later.

On the eastern frontier, the Empire came under pressure from the Seldjuk Turks, ending with the disaster at Manzikert in 1071.

This is List 128 of Art de la Guerre.

The majority of the figures are Alain Touller, except the Varangian Guard and the bow-armed psiloi (Gladiator), the Petchenegs (Essex),the Normans (Baueda) and the Turks (Old Glory).

Kataphraktoi :

Kavallarioi :

Mounted archers were initially interspersed amongst the lancers (forming the rear ranks), a practice which ended some time in the middle to late 11th century.

Skoutatoi :

Behind front ranks of heavily-armoured spearmen are ranks of archers, firing overhead.

Varangian Guard :

The famous Varangian Guard served the Byzantine Empire throughout this period.

Psiloi :

The Byzantines relied on skirmish troops using a variety of weapons (javelins, slings and crossbows).

Mercenaries :

Petcheneg an Ghuzz light cavalry from the steppe served as Prokoursatores (scouts) or as flankers.  Norman mercenaries were present in Italy as early as 1017.