Badge or Harness Pendant
Heraldry, or coat-of-arms, were vitally important in Europe throughout the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. Heraldic emblems were used to identify noble families, cities, regions, and even countries. In addition to being displayed on shields and flags, heraldry was incorporated into architectural decoration on the interior and the exterior of buildings, on furniture, works of art, clothing, and horse equipment. Harness pendants, like this example, would have been attached to a headstall, bridle, or other straps making up the tack of a horse ridden by a nobleman or noblewoman, or a member of their household. Many harness pendants also have decoration that is simply ornamental, or have symbols that are not specifically heraldic in nature.
Artwork Details
- Title: Badge or Harness Pendant
- Date: 14th century
- Culture: Spanish
- Medium: Copper, gold, enamel
- Dimensions: H. 2 3/8 in. (6 cm); W. 2 in. (5.1 cm); Wt. 0.5 oz. (14.2 g)
- Classification: Miscellaneous-Badges
- Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1904
- Object Number: 04.3.392
- Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor
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possibly Spanish
13th–early 15th century
possibly Spanish
13th–early 15th century
possibly Spanish
13th–early 15th century
possibly Spanish
13th–early 15th century
Spanish
15th century
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