Polish-Lithuanian Levy Cavalry Command

In the 16th century, the introduction of gunpowder and firearms rendered medieval armoured cavalry obsolete. The standing army of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth gradually transitioned to other, more modern forms of cavalry. Under eastern influence, the cavalrymen's armament became lighter, and their speed and mobility increased. This contributed to the successes of Polish cavalry in numerous wars against Tsarist Russia, the Ottomans, and the Tatars. The 16th century saw the emergence of lighter cavalry, known as Kozacy (singular Kozak, hence "towarzysz kozacki"). Their offensive armament in the 16th century included a shorter "half-lance" (dzida) or rohatyna, bow and arrows, a battle axe and a sabre, and in the 17th century, one or two pistols and a carbine. These miniatures can also be used as Cossacks, as this was a general term used for light cavalry troops, even if the soldiers were Poles and not ethnic Cossacks. This is somewhat confusing, as the term "Cossack" was used in various contexts, including for troops who rebelled and fought against the Poles.

Includes:

3 multi-part metal miniatures of Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth levy cavalry command; 1 mounted leader, 1 mounted standard-bearer, and 1 mounted musician.
Miniature sculpted by Wojtek Flis. Miniatures painted by Jamie Getliffe.