Horse Tack Ornament

2nd–3rd century

Not on view

This small bronze element, shaped as a pelta shield, decorated the horse tack of a German-Roman rider, probably fighting in the Imperial army.

The pelta was the traditional Thracian light infantry shield during Hellenistic times, and the shield of the legendary Amazons. During the Roman period it was used as an apotropaic ornament (a protection from the evil eye) and possibly a symbol of the warrior's virtues.

Artwork Details

Object Information

Overview

Provenance

References

Title: Horse Tack Ornament
Date: 2nd–3rd century
Culture: Roman-German
Medium: Copper alloy, possibly gold
Dimensions: Diam. 2 1/2 in. (6.4 cm); Wt. 1 oz. (28.3 g)
Classification: Equestrian Equipment-Bits
Credit Line: Gift of Stephen V. Grancsay, 1942
Object Number: 42.50.229
Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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