Sassanid Howda Spearman

 

This is the Sassanid Howda Spearman that first appeared in the Miniature Figurines 75 catalogue as PB 224. The model was actually released somewhat earlier and included in an update sheet to the 72/73 catalogue. 

Both PB ranges were based on Phil Barker's books Armies of the Macedonian and Punic Wars and Armies and Enemies of Imperial Rome. This figure doesn't appear in the AEIR book although the numbering  references the picture of the Sassanid elephant and crew illustration number 124.  

The base is stamped PB 224 on the upper surface. As with all the AEIR infantry models the number is that of the associated illustration plus '100'. 

The model is designed to stand in a howda, from which position he is free to wield his spear over the side of  his elephant. I've plonked him onto a dice to enable me to take a photograph. Here he is, valiantly defending the dice against attack.

His appearance is based upon the light infantry types shown in the AEIR book rather than the elephant crew picture itself, which shows armoured infantry with bows. Why Minifigs felt that a specific spearman was required I don't know.