Shaffron (head armor for a horse)

Culture Southern German

Date1525–1530

Mediumsteel and iron with modern leathers

Dimensions63 × 30 × 24 cm (24 13/16 × 11 13/16 × 9 7/16 in.), 3 lb, 2 oz (weight)

ClassificationsArms and Armor

Markings2 punched assembly dots on each plate.

Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection

Terms

Object number2014.75.1

DescriptionThe steel shows some iridescence from heat-treatment. The X-shaped center plate shows some crudity in execution, and could be associated or restored. The lower plate is inexpertly executed in comparison to the upper plate, and is almost certainly restored. The left ear and poll plate are probably restored. The left cheek is probably restored, but the right may be original. There is deformation in the fluting near the ears and in the recess above the eyes, probably reflecting rework in adding the center plate and ear plate(s).
Label TextAs in many of the cultures of Eurasia and Africa, the military elite of medieval Europe were mounted: the word for “knight” in almost every European language actually means “horseman.” A well trained warhorse was expensive, and a knight’s steed often wore at least a head protector, and sometimes additional armor for the neck and body.Provenance(As of 1893) Collection of Richard Zschille Purchased by Museum on November 9, 1940 from Jacques Seligmann & Co. (NYC), agents for estate of Clarence H. Mackay. Purchase price of $15,000 included all numbers associated with HAM#2604. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.

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