"John Ray's new book - a military gentleman" Topic
23 Posts
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Marc the plastics fan | 09 Oct 2013 1:26 p.m. PST |
Well, my book arrived, and it is lovely. I am sure a more detailed review will follow, but from my personal persepective, it is a truly inspirational book of John's collection, and his approach. It is making me really question what I want to do with my wargaming, so thank you John. If I could wish for more, it would be a follow up devoted to his figure crafting. But I highly recommend this to anyone who likes looking at lovely figures, 18th century wars, or those who are interested in a fascinating story. |
unfashionabledc | 09 Oct 2013 2:17 p.m. PST |
Indeed, and i'm surprised it hasn't been mentioned previously. To repeat something i wrote elsewhere: John Ray's masterpiece is now available to anyone who missed the pre-launch offer. In short: if you can afford it then buy it, you will not be disappointed. The hobby has not seen the like of this book before, and won't again (unless perhaps John does another). John and his team have taken the journal of an officer who served in Europe and America, dramatised his story, and illustrated it with literally hundreds of plates, sketches and photographs of John's vast collection of 30mm bespoke figures, buildings, ships and terrain. You get land and naval battles, sieges, vignettes and civilian scenes. Every element of this work is superb, no corners have been cut. It's even physically impressive: a solid 'Troiani sized' (approx 12" by 9") hardback of over 300 pages. The nearest comparison that comes to mind is Curt Johnson's 'Battles of the American Revolution' but it's a poor comparison – 'A Military Gentleman' blows Johnson out of the water and into the outer atmosphere. So, if you are an 18th century wargamer, appreciate state of the art sculpting, modelling and painting, or just enjoy a beautifully produced book, then go on, spoil yourself
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Mollinary | 09 Oct 2013 2:22 p.m. PST |
Just received my copy. It is beautiful! Inspirational! If you can afford it, buy it. Mollinary |
clibinarium | 09 Oct 2013 3:58 p.m. PST |
I couldn't really afford it, but I bought it anyway! Having done so I have no regrets. Its truly superb. |
Nic Robson | 09 Oct 2013 6:10 p.m. PST |
I concur with all the above, an inspiring work and one that will be sought after in years to come. Nic |
Duc de Brouilly | 09 Oct 2013 10:52 p.m. PST |
Marvellous book of a marvellous collection. Wish Bill Gaskin would do something similar with his Peninsular War collection. |
Ben Waterhouse | 10 Oct 2013 2:46 a.m. PST |
Just ordered this minute! |
Snowcat | 10 Oct 2013 3:48 a.m. PST |
Just ordered mine. (Shame I missed the pre-order . . . shipping to Oz is a killer.) But this is one of those 'must-haves' that makes the hobby even more special. Cheers! |
Marcus Maximus | 10 Oct 2013 8:06 a.m. PST |
Fantastic looking book
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Marc the plastics fan | 10 Oct 2013 9:19 a.m. PST |
It is indeed, and promises to be an interesting read. |
edmuel2000 | 20 Oct 2013 4:22 a.m. PST |
Well, perhaps if there were more information it might cause some interest. Unless I'm missing something, the pages at the link just refer to it as "the book" and talk a bit about the production process--and how to buy it. Zero information concerning content or even the premise of the thing. |
Marc the plastics fan | 20 Oct 2013 4:30 a.m. PST |
From that link: "Some years ago, following a series of articles shown on the internet of a campaign that I had completed, an American lady called Marcia contacted me regarding her ancestor who had been mentioned in a number of the engagements. This led to many conversations, emails and paperwork crossing the ‘big pond'. It soon became apparent that, as a result of our correspondence, we had the material and the background to this character to turn his story into a publication. And so, with Marcia's blessing, ‘The Travels and Adventures of an Officer of the 18th Century' was born. The work, which is written as an adventure story, covers the earlier part of his military life. The second part of the book is an extensive gallery of over 100 pages, including a number of double-page landscapes, allowing many of the models in the collection to be shown separately, along with photographs of other miniatures that are not included within the main story. The project has taken about seven years, from concept to publication. Figures had to be made and painted, and models constructed to create the period backdrops in keeping with this amazing story. With the help of many friends, I have now completed the book, and it will soon be available.
click on photo to enlarge The book has 300 pages, and this first limited edition (of 500 numbered copies) will be produced in large format (305mm by 230mm), on high quality 170gsm silk paper, cased in wibalin over 3mm boards, for a high-value production. The binding is sewn litho to ensure stylish reproduction and because there are a number of double-page spread photographs. The unique inclusion of two ribbons will allow you the reader to keep an eye on the gallery section whilst at the same time enjoying the main story! About the Photos The pictures shown within the text of this webpage are merely "snaps" and do not appear in the book itself. (For an example of the professional photographs within the book, see the picture of the flags at the foot of this page). Most pages of the book are illustrated with original pen and ink drawings, specially commissioned military artwork, and professional photographs of model soldiers. In total there are more than 500 images throughout the book, covering: • the Russian /Ottoman Wars, • Wars in Western Europe, • the Bavarian Succession, • and the conflict in America, culminating in the Wars with France and Spain. click on photo to enlarge Within the book, there are: •full-scale, pitched battles •skirmishes •duels •naval engagements •and sieges involving regular troops from the main protagonists of the 18th century world; and irregular troops, from Ottomans to North American Indians. Please note: This book is not for those who want a set of games rules, or a series of "how to" articles; but it is for those collectors who appreciate the fine art of beautiful model soldiers and armies in wonderful settings, including extensively detailed model towns and cities." Hopefully that will give you enough flavour Ed 2k. From my experience, what is it? A work of love from Mr Ray, that I felt justified my financial support, for a lovingly prepared book of inspiration – and bear in mind that the 18th century is not my main period, so the inspiration it provided me was in how to create an all-encompassing period in miniature. As eye candy, it will sit very nicely on my shelf and in my mind's eye. |
Snowcat | 21 Oct 2013 3:51 p.m. PST |
My copy arrived a few days ago. It is a work of beauty and exquisite attention to detail. Some really lovely graphic touches throughout. Aside from the story, the photos are a goldmine of inspiration for wargamers and modellers. The book is of the highest quality, made to last, and this is just as well because it has planted itself in the top echelon of my collection (no easy thing to do). Anyone considering purchasing a copy – just do it. A gem like this is a must-have. Cheers. |
doug1717 | 22 Oct 2013 9:27 a.m. PST |
I ordered a copy, looking forward to this one. It has been a fall cornucopia of wargame books, Henry Hyde's book, John Ray, and Joe Dever's release. |
Snowcat | 22 Oct 2013 3:10 p.m. PST |
Sure is. I also have Henry's and Joe's is on pre-order. :) Cheers |
altfritz | 28 Oct 2013 6:32 p.m. PST |
Received mine today – ordered on the 24th! Fantastic book! :-) |
Timmo uk | 12 Nov 2013 12:52 p.m. PST |
It is indeed a fabulous book. If you'd like to get an idea of the type of imagery it contains it's worth taking a looking at this game, staged recently by John Ray and author of the book, Tim Hall. link |
Paint Pig | 14 Nov 2013 3:53 a.m. PST |
Great book, as with altfritz my copy was virtually on the door step before I hung the phone up, well packaged so as to prevent damage. regards dave |
doug1717 | 14 Nov 2013 4:26 a.m. PST |
The book is hugely impressive, truly a work of art. |
Timmo uk | 14 Nov 2013 7:06 a.m. PST |
It's also huge, impressive and a true work of art! ; ) |
Der Alte Fritz | 25 Nov 2013 10:58 a.m. PST |
I like the book so much that I bought two copies: one to thumb through and read, and the other to store away for the future. I probably look at the book a couple of times each week and it seems like I discover something new in it each time I look at the book. |
Frederick the Grape | 09 Dec 2013 8:53 p.m. PST |
I seem to see something new every time I look at the book. Thank you John for creating this book. |
Losing the Will | 11 Dec 2013 6:28 a.m. PST |
Lovely book, truly inspirational! |
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