Byzantine Cataphract- Elite Cavalry Force

The heavily armored cataphract cavalry soldiers included the armored horses have been the standard elite cavalry force of the Byzantine Empire ever since its early days in the Late Roman era. In the 7th century due to the creation of the Byzantine Empire's Thematic System, the cataphracts were the professional elite force of the Themes or provinces being equipped in high quality armor with high quality weapons.
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My drawing here depicts a Byzantine cataphract cavalry soldier from the 10th or 11th century wearing the scaled lamellar armor in which his horse wears as well. For weapons, he is seen with a spear, Byzantine standard longsword or Spathion, and a round shield.
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Artwork of the cataphract and his horse hand dawn by myself; background, emblem, and borders done with Photoshop.

© Pceldran, 2021