Command Stands

A Command Stand any Imperial Prince would be proud to own!

I short time ago I was made aware of some new laser-cut MDF buildings from a UK company called Sarissa Precision. They make a number of very nice buildings, carts and wagons, boats and bridges, but what really caught my eye was their range of "Far East" buildings.

When I first saw them on the Shadowkings blog it immediately occurred to me that the platforms might serve as command stands. So after some consideration I ordered the large Community Building. I knew it was going to be big but what attracted me to it over the others was that it had three steps up instead of two and the steps were wider and were placed front and back.

And it is quite large! The platform measures 6" x 12" if not exactly then very close to it. Is that too big? There are a couple of smaller village houses to choose from, some of which are on tall stilts (which I think rules them out) and some which are L-shaped rather than rectangular. There is a low rectangular style, with the two steps mentioned above. This might be a possible, smaller alternative. There appears to only be a single set of steps.

Myself, for the main field army - led by an Imperial Prince or High General - I think that the larger platform works pretty well. It will accommodate not just the Prince and his aides and generals but also possibly the large war drums that are used. And there is room to have the offensive and defensive magical contingents flanking on either end.

The smaller platform might be an option for a smaller force - or if your table size creates limitations.

I had intended to eventually produce a command stand but I was thinking of getting one made from resin. Or resin and metal bits. I envisioned it having carved wooden supports and totems or stelae and being decorated by many banners. (The irregular finish to the ends of this platform are a minor thing I don't like - I think the platform would be better finished.) I think the commander and his sub-generals would stand or sit on daises or piles of rugs to delineate their respective statuses. There would perhaps be scribes and slaves in attendance, or standing near at the ready. Also runners and junior officers. These would perhaps be at the foot of the stairs as would a contingent of bodyguards. Perhaps tapestries would be suspended between the posts along the edge of the platform? Or banners draped over the edge?

I think it has the potential to make a really nice display piece! :-)

What I am going to look into is getting some accessories made that could be used to dress it up a bit. And I'm going to order a smaller version to make a better comparison.