CARTHAGINIAN CAVALRYMAN

An extract from Armies of the Macedonian and Punic Wars
by Duncan Head, illustrated by Ian Heath

99. CARTHAGINIAN CAVALRYMAN

[Based on a Terracotta disc representing a Carthaginian cavalryman]

A terracotta disc, probably in fact dating before our era, shows a Carthaginian cavalryman who provides the helmet, shield, spear and long tunic of this figure. His torso is hidden by the shield, but the armour types discussed under 97 are likely. The helmet seems to be a hemispherical bowl with simple cheekguards hanging from the rim in Assyrian style. The shield could perhaps have a recessed centre like 97’s. The citizen cavalry was recruited from the nobility, so would probably be elaborately dressed and equipped. Silius Italicus mentions a purple saddle cloth.

Next: 100. CARTHAGINIAN OFFICER WITH STANDARDS in Armies of the Macedonian and Punic Wars by Duncan Head and Ian Heath