Shaffron (Horse's Head Defense) with arms of the Freyberg family
Unknown Artist
ca. 1540
Medium
Steel, pewter, leather, textile, gold
Dimensions
H. 24 7/8 in. (63.2 cm); W. 12 1/4 in. (31.1 cm); D. 8 1/4 in. (21 cm); Wt. 4 lb. 13 oz. (2188 g)
Classification
Equestrian Equipment-Shaffrons
Culture
German, probably Landshut
Department
Arms and Armor
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of William H. Riggs, 1913
Accession Number
14.25.1644
Art Historical Context
Step into the world of Renaissance chivalry with this stunning *Shaffron (Horse's Head Defense)* crafted around 1540 in Germany, likely in the Bavarian city of Landshut. A shaffron was essential equestrian armor, protecting a warhorse's head from blows during battle or tournaments while projecting the rider's noble status. Adorned with the heraldic arms of the Frey family—a prominent German noble lineage—this piece exemplifies the blend of utility and prestige in 16th-century. Forged from steel for unyielding protection, it incorporates pewter, leather, textile, and gold for lavish decoration...