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"Blind" Shaffron (Horse's Head Defense) for the Joust

ca. 1490; rondel, late 19th century
Not on view
Jousts were friendly contests fought by two mounted participants armed with lances, with the object of unseating the opponent or at least breaking one's lance squarely on the other contestant's shield or helmet. Well-trained horses for the joust were extremely expensive and were usually protected with armor. The shaffron was often "blind"––that is, the eyes were covered so as to prevent the horse from shying away at the opponent's approach. (The rondel attached to this example is a late nineteenth-century restoration.)

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: "Blind" Shaffron (Horse's Head Defense) for the Joust
  • Date: ca. 1490; rondel, late 19th century
  • Culture: German
  • Medium: Steel, brass, textile, leather
  • Dimensions: H. 21 1/4 in. (54.1 cm); W. 10 7/8 in. (27.6 cm); D. 3 1/2 in. (8.9 cm); Wt. 5 lb. 13 oz. (2638 g)
  • Classification: Equestrian Equipment-Shaffrons
  • Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1904
  • Object Number: 04.3.292
  • Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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