Seldjoukide (1037-1194)

Here is my 8pt+ Saracen army for Saga.  The Seldjoukides dominated the Middle East from the mid-11th century until the end of the 12th.  It can historically fight against my Last Romans, Byzantines, Normands and Crusaders.  When I have finished my Fatimid army (which will use the Mutatawwi'a battle board), they can fight them too !

The Warlord (Hero, 0 pts)

When the Seldjoukide warlord is not fighting, he is hunting, always accompanied by his faithful bodyguards.

Perry Miniatures (the Lord) and Gripping Beast (Bodyguards)

Arab Cavalry (2pts, Hearthguard)

The Seldjoukides, who were Turks, took control of Arab kingdoms, to which they rapidly acculurated, adopting Islam in particular.  Arab nobles, whilst they certainly knew how to individually use a bow, only rarely used it in combat.  They preferred spear and shield.

Perry Miniatures

Ghulams (2pts, Hearthguard)

Ghulams are heavy cavalry, captured slaves raised to battle from an early age, who fight with spear and shield but also rely heavily on bowfire.  In the earlier period they were often Turks, but as Islam took hold amongst all the Turkish peoples, making enslaving them impossible, they were increasingly drawn from amongst other populations, such as Circassians or Armenians.

Perry Miniatures

Turkish Horse Archers (Warriors, 1,5 pts)

Turcoman horse archers provide the mainstay of Sedjoukide armies.

Gripping Beast

Perry Miniatures

City Militia (Warriors, 1,5 pts)

Although Arab armies rely essentially on cavalry, spearmen are useful for holding the centre of the line, or rooting sneaky Byzantine archers out of cover.

Perry Miniatures

Turkish Javelineers (Levy - Mercenaries, 1 pt)

These troops are no doubt drawn from subject Turcoman tribes, particularly rife in Asia Minor.  I play them as an 8-man unit of Mercenary Scouts (Eclaireurs).

Gripping Beast

Imam (Hero - Mercenary, 1 pt)

A dose of religious fervour is handy to ensure victory over the infidel !

 

Gripping Beast