On the British AWB37 Mounted officers figures. Is the detail at the front end of the saddlery pistol holsters or a sheepskin or both like the Continental 1st dragoons. Or do I really need to make an appointment with my optician?
you mean the tan bit ?
(http://www.ukstrike.co.uk/AWI/Brit%20Gen%2001.JPG)
(http://www.1st-art-gallery.com/thumbnail/184361/1/King-George-II-$281683-1760$29-At-The-Battle-Of-Dettingen,-With-The-Duke-Of-Cumberland-And-Robert,-4th-Earl-Of-Holderness,-27th-June-1743,-C.1743.jpg)
Yeah, that's the bit. It seems textured but also appears to have a smooth pistol barrel protruding below it. The illustration you've posted is interesting, I don't have any references to officers mounts so this certainly is one option. Do you know if the original sculptor is available to comment ?
I've just been browsing the military collection at 1st gallery.com, boy that's an interesting site Anyways it does look that the detail may well be pistol holsters as similar details appear on officers horse furnishing from early 1700 through to 1815. Please don't get me wrong with this inquiry, I find your brushwork truly inspirational and I'm certainly not nit-picking.
It's sheepskin. Had difficulty finding portraits of officers mounted (plenty available dismounted), so deferred to Perries on this one;
(http://www.perry-miniatures.com/images/aw47.jpg)
The painting shown looks like officers of the 1740s?
Cheers Clib
Thanks for the help Dazza.