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JAN-17 - Zihril Nefer | John Jenkins Designs
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JAN-17 - Zihril Nefer | John Jenkins Designs
This Zihril Nefer depicts a heavily armoured Ottoman assault soldier advancing during the Great Siege of Malta in 1565.
The figure is represented wearing a combination of plate and chain armour with protective trousers, carrying a round shield and holding an axe in a lowered position. The advancing pose provides a variation from the raised-weapon figures in the collection.
The Zihril Nefer were a specialised group of Janissaries who volunteered to undertake the most dangerous assaults against enemy fortifications.
Their duties involved leading attacks at critical points in an enemy's defences, particularly when siege artillery or prolonged fighting had weakened defensive walls.
These soldiers were often referred to as Serdengeçi, a name associated with exceptional courage and disregard for personal safety. Their dangerous assignments resulted in high casualties, but successful service could also offer opportunities for promotion.
The Ottoman Empire relied heavily upon its disciplined Janissary infantry during military campaigns. Under Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, these troops played an important role in the Ottoman army assembled for the invasion of Malta.
The siege began on 18 May 1565 and continued until September, when the Ottoman forces withdrew after failing to defeat the Knights of St. John.
This armoured warrior makes an excellent addition to an Ottoman assault group, particularly when displayed with JAN-15 and JAN-16 to create a varied formation of advancing infantry.
Now available from The Military Workshop.
Brand: John Jenkins
