Oldhammer Orc Art

In the Oldhammer era of Warhammer Fantasy, Orcs (often referred to as “Orcs” in earlier editions) were a prominent and iconic faction known for their brutish strength, love of battle, and chaotic behavior. Here’s a look at Orcs during this period:

Background and Origins
Greenskins: Orcs, along with Goblins, Snotlings, and other related creatures, are collectively known as Greenskins due to their green skin tones.
Tribal Society: Orcs are organized into tribes led by the biggest and strongest Orc, typically a Warboss or Warlord. Their society values strength, aggression, and cunning.
Gork and Mork: Orcs worship two deities, Gork (brutal and cunning) and Mork (cunning and brutal), who embody their ideals of strength and trickery.
Appearance and Characteristics
Physical Traits: Orcs are larger and more muscular than humans, with rough, green skin, large tusks, and a generally brutish appearance. They grow bigger and stronger the more they fight.
Weapons and Armor: Orcs favor crude but effective weapons like choppas (axes) and crude clubs. Their armor is often cobbled together from various scavenged materials.
Culture and Behavior
Love of Battle: Orcs live for fighting and war. They are happiest when they are in battle, and even outside of combat, they engage in constant brawls to establish dominance.
Waaagh!: Orcs are driven by a powerful collective energy known as the Waaagh!, which can turn into massive war campaigns led by charismatic and powerful Warbosses.
Units and Warfare
Boyz: The core of any Orc army, Boyz are the basic infantry units. They are tough and numerous, capable of overwhelming foes with sheer numbers.
Black Orcs: Elite Orcs bred for war, larger and more disciplined than regular Boyz, often serving as the Warboss’s personal guard.
Boar Boyz: Orc cavalry mounted on ferocious war boars, known for their speed and brutality in charges.
War Machines: Orcs have access to a variety of crude war machines, including chariots, catapults, and sometimes even looted artillery from other factions.
Oldhammer Lore and Iconography
Visual Style: The Oldhammer era’s visual depiction of Orcs is often characterized by exaggerated features, a sense of humor, and a certain grimdark charm. Their equipment and attire reflect their scavenging and improvisational nature.
Artwork: Oldhammer art often portrayed Orcs in chaotic and dynamic scenes, emphasizing their ferocity and anarchic spirit.