Thanks for all your kind comments. In answer to Chris's question as to whether I found anything for myself - well yes. We came across a shop called "Eclectica" near Piazza Colonna. Not only did it have collectables but also sold magic tricks. The outside wall cabinets displayed quite a selection of model soldiers. The owner of the shop stated that the figures were painted exclusively for him by someone in Rome. When you look at the photos you will see various makers - especially the Swiss Guards. King & Country, Niena, Paola Maria Tadai, and others. My dear wife bought me the figure of Victor Emanuel II and bought herself the figure of Pope Francis (by Niena). I also rather liked the footballers in their vintage strip. This was a project I had often thought about and had already researched.

Renato