Malplaquet~A Vignette

I was inspired to do this vignette after studying illustrations, by several artist, of the Prussian Regiment Alt-Dohna, who were under the command of John Churchill, Earl of Malborough. I chose the Alt-Dohna regiment, because it was the only regiment were I could find illustrations for an officer, grenadier and musketeer.

The illustrations used by Bob Marrion and Angus McBride were loosely based on R. Knotel's studies. With that, each artist interpretation varied in some ways, particularly with the grenadier. For example, the design of the grenadiers mitre cap is different in each illustration. The sword and bayonet belt design is different. But all show the coat worn over the belt. Despite this little nuance, I believe this is a good description of the Alt-Dohna at Malplaquet.

The materials used to build: The armature was made from paperclip and Aves putty torso. Body was built up with Aves and the clothing and some gear is an Aves and Kneadatite mix.

"Banny"

This figure was inspired by a caricature study, by Peter Copeland, of British Lt. Colonel Banastre Tarleton during the American Revolution.

I wanted the figure to resemble the illustration as close as possible, but as I put putty to paper clip, it took on a life of it's own. I "married" a 54mm scale head to a 1/35ish body. Giving the head an exaggerated forehead, nose and chin. In hindsight I should have made the leggs more "stubby" but all in all I hope to have captured the spirit of Copeland's illustration.

It was a fun project and I hope try this type of sculpture again.