At this point I was pretty happy with what I had, but I was still unsure about what kind of base to do. In the end, I decided to keep the base simple, and mounted the figure on a large GW circular base.
![Mounted on a large circular base Mounted on a large circular base](workbench/pics/anc/410122a.jpg)
Using a mix of Liquitex Sand Medium and some ballast, I made up my standard course-sand mix with Americana Burnt Umber mixed in. This was painted over the entire base and left to dry.
![Sand mixture applied to base Sand mixture applied to base](workbench/pics/anc/410122b.jpg)
This was then carefully drybrushed with Apple Barrel Carmel, and then drybrushed again with Americana Toffee.
![Ground is painted and drybrushed Ground is painted and drybrushed](workbench/pics/anc/410122c.jpg)
I thought it was too dark and rough-looking, so I washed it all with Ceramcoat Pigskin, and drybrushed again with Americana Toffee.
It was then that I realized I had a severed head and no blood. I am not the biggest fan of blood on weapons - in fact, I really prefer my toy soldiers bloodless - but in this case, it seemed odd to have a pristine blade. So I painted on a base color of Americana Deep Red, and then picked out streaks with Americana Santa Red.
![The finished gladiator with base The finished gladiator with base](workbench/pics/anc/410122d.jpg)
So there it is. I have to admit that I am quite pleased with the figure, given the limited amount of time I had to paint him up and the problems that came up along the way. I also did not realize until now how often I kept using the same colors in this figure, but it all seemed to work together in a pleasing fashion. I hope sincerely that you have gotten some useful tips, and will send me on to the next round. Thanks!!