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Shaffron (Horse's Head Defense)

ca. 1515–20
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.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Shaffron (Horse's Head Defense)
  • Date: ca. 1515–20
  • Geography: probably Nuremberg
  • Culture: German, probably Nuremberg
  • Medium: Steel
  • Dimensions: H. 25 in. (63.5 cm); W.13 1/2 in. (34.3 cm); D. 12 1/2 in. (31.8 cm); Wt. 7 lb. 2 oz. (3218 g)
  • Classification: Equestrian Equipment-Shaffrons
  • Credit Line: Gift of William H. Riggs, 1913
  • Object Number: 14.25.1645
  • Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

More Artwork

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Helm for the Joust of Peace (<i>Stechhelm</i>), Steel, copper alloy, German, probably Nuremberg
Helm for the Joust of Peace (Stechhelm)
German, probably Nuremberg
ca. 1500
Shaffron (Horse's Head Defense), Steel, copper alloy, Turkish or Iranian
Shaffron (Horse's Head Defense)
Turkish or Iranian
early 16th century
Burgonet in Oriental Fashion (Zischägge), Steel, gold, brass, German, probably Nuremberg
Burgonet in Oriental Fashion (Zischägge)
German, probably Nuremberg
ca. 1560
Shaffron (Horse's Head Defense), Steel, gold, leather, Dutch
Shaffron (Horse's Head Defense)
Dutch
ca. 1620
Ewer with Wildman Finial, Gilded silver, enamel, and paint, German
Ewer with Wildman Finial
German
late 15th century

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