Shaffron (Horse's Head Defense)

German, probably Nuremberg

Not on view

This shaffron is noteworthy not only for its large size but also for the unusual sculptural quality imparted by the boldly roped double ridges and the boss on the forehead. The fluted surfaces increased the rigidity of the plate but also served to lighten the shaffron's massive form. This piece of armor exemplifies the distinctive new fashion for fluted armor that developed in Germany in the early sixteenth century and remained popular until about 1530.

Shaffron (Horse's Head Defense), Steel, German, probably Nuremberg

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