eldar gyrinxes
I am not a fan of the events of The Fracture of Biel-Tan or the triumvirate of models that accompanied its release. That being said, I was delighted to see a modern update of the classic Gyrinx. This psychic feline familiar has been mentioned in the background for years, but only previously had a distinctly boring-looking metal model. I bought three copies of the Yvraine model so that I could assemble a trio of Gyrinxes for my collection. Although they don't exist as standalone entries in the Codex, I wanted to include them purely as interesting character models. Two of the three will be converted, in order to convey different characters and personalities.date: 2018 - present (work-in-progress)
components: 3x Eldar Gyrinxes, 3x 32mm round bases, resin scenic base elements, plasticard, brass rod, Green Stuff
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Due to their size, each Gyrinx was modelled on a 32mm round base.
1. The first of the three Gyrinxes was assembled without any alteration.
The top of the right hind leg was substantially cut down so that it would lie flat.
The tuft of fur on the chin was bent slightly so that it falls straight down. The head is at a slight angle, giving the Gyrinx a bemused/quizzical lilt to its expression.
3. The second Gyrinx was extensively converted so as to appear to be lying down in a typically feline pose.
The torso was separated from the front half and rotated around, so that the Gyrinx is lying on its side with its front half upright and alert.
4. Early work-in-progress shot of the lying Gyrinx from the back.
5. This elevated view better emphasises the changes to the positions of the rear legs.
6. I modelled a rocky outcrop in Green Stuff for the Gyrinx to recline on.
A subtle ridge of Green Stuff was used to make the Gyrinx's spine, emphasising the twist in its body.
7. The disparate parts of the body have now been blended together with Green Stuff.
8. The completed conversion. I was delighted with how well this turned out; the pose works really well and looks very natural for a cat/Gyrinx.
9. Rear view of the completed conversion.
Another decorative element from the "Warhammer 40,00 basing kit" was used. As with the first Gyrinx, it had to be cut down substantially to make it sit flat.
I modelled some tufts of fur on the chest with Green Stuff.
10. Top elevation of the model.
11. This view shows the crossed front paws.
12. The first, unaltered Gyrinx has been undercoated.
13. The second, converted Gyrinx has also been undercoated.
14. The reclining Gyrinx was the first to be painted.
15. I worked hard on the eyes to make them look realistic.
16. I used tiny brush strokes to simulate the Gyrinx's fur. You can also see the Gyrinx's pads; I used purple as a contrast to the teal fur, which I think works well.
17. A view of the Gyrinx's back.
18. Top-down view, highlighting the detail on the scenic base.
19. Final view of the completed model, focusing on the feline expression.
20. The painting of the second Gyrinx was completed shortly after the first. This Gyrinx has a snowy white coat, with pink nose, ears and pads. I chose green for the eyes and painted the gem on its collar the same colour.
21. I feel that the stippling effect works well to give the impression of short, dense fur.
22. A side view of the proud feline.
23. Close-up view of the Gyrinx's head.
24. The two completed Gyrinxes make a good pair.
25. Rear view of the Gyrinxes.
26. "Gyrinxes; atta- oh, wait, no - come back! Bad kitty! Look, this way - no, not that way; over here... Now, on my comman- no, don't do that... stand up! Oh for Isha's sake... Aren't you supposed to be psychic?!"
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