Toys & Dolls

Landsknechte Doppelsoldner of the "Black Legion", 1520 Known as the "Black Legion" or "Black Bands", this group of soldiers grew originally from a nucleus of some 800 Landsknecht in French pay who refused to return to Germany in accordance with Maximilian's decree after the Imperial defeat at Ravenna in 1512. Under the command of the Duke of Gueldres, this notorious company was outfitted in black jerkins and hose, and their armour was blackened by fire to avoid rusting. The "Black Legion" was finally destroyed at Pavia in 1525. Painted figure made of white metal, 54 mm.