From MichaelA Māori Artillery (27 points)

More from the ‘Empress Miniatures’ New Zealand Wars range, this time a captured Royal Navy Carronade and a Māori crew.

Now I have to confess that I know little of the Carronade other than what I have gleaned from my limited research, but it strikes me as a particularly formidable short range, anti personal weapon, particularly when in the hands of a determined adversary – perfect for defending one’s Pā against the British!

This lovely set comes with three crew members again sculpted by the talented Paul Hicks.  I couldn’t resist having a go at their facial tattoos or more correctly the Tā Moko, perhaps an unnecessary addition given the scale of the miniatures, but something that is so literally ingrained in the culture of the Māori, (Along with the Silver Fern placed at the front of base) that I thought that it was worth the effort.


Lovely work as always Michael. I must confess that this is a period that I know very little about.

To the base of 25 points for these I'm going to add a couple of bonus points for making the effort to paint the Ta Moko designs on their faces.

Tamsin

From MichaelA - Hello Sailor (20 Points)

I have been beavering away since the start of the Challenge on a series of miniatures for the first bonus round, but felt that I needed to register some points in the Challenge proper before the cut was made.  To that end I have set about these rather nice Paul Hicks sculpts with lashings of blue paint.

These are from ‘Empress Miniatures’ New Zealand Wars range representing Royal Naval command and personalities.  They are, as with my previous experience of this range, nicely cast and have been languishing in the lead pile for far too long. 

Before I was once again seduced by the bonus rounds, I was hoping to use this year’s challenge to find a way back to my beloved Victorian era and these would certainly be a step in the right direction.  Alas it would seem that I have already been distracted, but I am hopeful to add to my Crimean War and Indian Mutiny collections before the end of proceedings – time will tell if I have the stamina and willpower to achieve my goal.

______________________________

Beautiful work, Mr. Awdry and welcome about this year's voyage! 

I've not seen these before and they are quite the treat, especially with your modest 'lashing' of paint. :)  I particularly like the fellow with the grey sideburns, top hat and sword. He doesn't look like he would put up with much guff. 

20 Points for your opening remarks Michael. I look forward to your upcoming Crimean and Indian Mutiny efforts.