Shaffron (horse's head armor)
Culture
Ottoman
Dateabout 1500–1525
Mediumsteel, gilding, copper or copper alloy, traces of leather
Dimensions57 × 21 cm (22 7/16 × 8 1/4 in.), 2 lb, 4 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.28
DescriptionGilded iron or steel. Rivets of copper or copper alloy around the perimeter. Some of these have rosette-style heads on the inside. Rivets at top of head have large interior heads with wheel-like stamped pattern.Engraved floral design against a punched ground; design consists of a centrally organized arabesque on the diamond-shaped brow, leaf and petal scrolls on the three nasal flutings, and pseudo-arabesques on the sides. The lines of the rectangles of applied gold leaf can be clearly seen on the surface.
Shaffrons of this type were used by both the Ottomans and Mamluks; the decoration on this example is closer to the Ottoman examples.
57 × 21 × 5 cm (22 7/16 × 8 1/4 × 2 in)
Label TextThe Turks who founded the Ottoman Empire had their origins on the grasslands of central Asia. As they migrated into the Middle East, they brought with them a tradition of horsemanship, as well as the curved swords that would eventually become predominant in the Islamic world. In their new home, the Turks were influenced by Mediterranean and Near Eastern traditions, which included the use of heavy armored cavalry. This rare gilt shaffron was made for a high-ranking horseman. It was once part of full horse armor of mail and plate, and the rider would have been similarly protected.ProvenancePurchased by John W. Higgins on April 21, 1931 from H. Furmage, London, England. Given to the Museum on December 15, 1931. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
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