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M130 - Mounted samurai

ref. EK Castings Zinnfigur M130

strong>EK Castings M130 - Mounted samurai, 16-17 centuries
 
Horses were brought to Japan from the continent end of the 4th - beginning of the 5th c. and were highly appreciated. Therefore, only noble warriors (Bushi) were mounted. These horses were short, shaggy and possessed unbridled temper. The samurai preferred the harsh stallions, who battled and bitten in battle. The rider approached the enemy in a zigzagging manner, making it difficult for enemy riflemen to engage in targeted fire. At close range, he started up a long sword (tachi), using the tactics of wedging in enemy groups, or was involved in a duel with another mounted warrior. Horses were also trained to force rivers and lakes, which are many in Japan.
Japanese horse equipment consisted of a saddle, stirrups of the original form, pantry, chest and croquet decorations, and reins with bits. The saddle consisted of wooden bow, connected by two planks, on which was laid a leather pillow. On the sides of the horse was an oval or rectangular shaped pot, made of cloth, leather or fur. The harness was usually made of silk cord bright colors and densely decorated with brushes and fringe. Reins were in the form of wide two-colored striped ribbons. From the saddle on both sides hung long ribbons with brushes or bells at the end. The mane of the horse could be cut as a short comb, and the tail sometimes tied up or retracted into a special bag.
Samurai is dressed in modern armor version called Katanugi ("half-naked"). The breastplate of this armor is a lacquered bodily color on the right side of the chest in the form of an exhausted body. The left side and the bottom are covered with sections of laced plates that mimic clothing. The helmet (kabuto) is decorated with horns (kuwagata) and has a facial half mask (Menp?). On the flag (sashimono) is represented the crest (Mon) "cut melon". A similar mon was used by several samurai clans.