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Persian Cavalryman in 'Armies of the Dark Ages 600-1066' by Ian Heath

PERSIAN CAVALRYMAN

An extract from Armies of the Dark Ages 600-1066
by Ian Heath

108. PERSIAN CAVALRYMAN

This figure from a 10th century fresco is included to show that Sassanid-style armour persisted in the East, and in fact equipment of this kind can even be found as far west as Fatimid Egypt so was probably widespread throughout the greater part of the Moslem world. Turkish mercenaries were probably largely responsible for its distribution. He may be an Abbasid but could equally well be a Samanid, or Buyid warrior; either way he is fairly certainly an amir or palace guard. Note the slight curve of the sword, the tubular vambraces and the small shield slung from the saddle-bow. The original does not show a bow but undoubtedly one was normally carried. The decorated belt is typical.

[Perhaps partially based on a 9th-10th Century Persian Wall Painting, Palace of Sabzpušan at Nišapur, Saffarid or Samanid Period]

Next: 109. GHAZNAVID INFANTRYMAN in Armies of the Dark Ages 600-1066 by Ian Heath