The Crossing

A column of mounted mercenaries advances across an ancient stone bridge, surrounded by mist and reflected in the dark water below.

This Playmobil diorama depicts the cavalry of the Grudgebringers, the famous mercenary company from the classic Warhammer Fantasy strategy game Shadow of the Horned Rat.

For this project, I wanted to create a dramatic landscape in which the scenery would be just as important as the figures.

The Grudgebringers Cross the Bridge

I imagined the cavalry travelling through a remote countryside, perhaps on its way to another campaign.

The mounted soldiers move together across the narrow bridge, carrying their weapons, shields and distinctive banners.

The ancient stonework, the surrounding mist and the water beneath the arches give the scene a mysterious atmosphere.

I particularly like the contrast between the colourful cavalry and the weathered grey stones of the bridge.

Building the Miniature Stone Bridge

The bridge is the main handmade element of this diorama.

I built its structure using polystyrene, carefully sculpting and texturing the surface to imitate old stone masonry.

Before painting, I treated the polystyrene to make the surface waterproof and protect the material.

I then painted the structure to reproduce the appearance of aged stone, with variations in colour and texture.

However, not every part of the bridge is made from polystyrene.

The bricks along the sides were made entirely from cement, cast in silicone moulds and incorporated into the structure.

Combining these materials allowed me to experiment with different textures and create a more convincing miniature stone bridge.

Water, Reflections and Atmosphere

One of my favourite aspects of the finished photograph is the reflection of the bridge in the water.

The dark surface beneath the arches adds depth to the scene, while the distant trees and mist help suggest a much larger landscape beyond the miniature battlefield.

Rather than depicting a battle, I wanted to capture a moment during the company's journey.

The soldiers seem to be moving towards an unknown destination, leaving the viewer to imagine what awaits them on the other side.

The Crossing – Playmobil Warhammer Diorama

The Grudgebringers cavalry crossing a handmade stone bridge. Playmobil Warhammer Fantasy diorama by Little Carpet Wars.

Inspired by Warhammer: Shadow of the Horned Rat

The Grudgebringers are the mercenary company commanded by Morgan Bernhardt in the classic 1995 strategy game Warhammer: Shadow of the Horned Rat.

I have always enjoyed the game's atmosphere, its distinctive units and its portrayal of a mercenary army travelling through the dangerous Warhammer world.

This photograph is part of my ongoing series of Playmobil projects inspired by the Grudgebringers.

You can also explore my Grudgebringers Mercenary Camp , featuring a handmade tent, campfire and soldiers resting between battles.

Bridge construction, diorama and photography: Little Carpet Wars
Inspiration: Warhammer: Shadow of the Horned Rat