Shaffron (Horse's Head Defense)
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
- 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
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German, probably Nuremberg
ca. 1500
Kunz Lochner
dated 1549
Kolman Helmschmid
ca. 1525
Kunz Lochner
dated 1548
Peter Peck
Ambrosius Gemlich
ca. 1540–45
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