Shaffron

17th century

Not on view

Although relatively unsophisticated in its manufacture, this shaffron is exceptionally rare, possibly unique, for its completeness, retaining all of its original plates and its textile backing. Most other surviving Indian shaffrons of this type consist solely of the long, ogival main plate, the shape of which is the defining feature of these shaffrons. A prime example of the type is a shaffron in the Metropolitan Museum's collection (acc. no. 2008.197). The latter is important both because it is very finely made and because it is inscribed with a date, A.H. 1062/A.D. 1617–18), and the name of a sultan of Golconda, providing a chronological and geographical context for all similar shaffrons.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

References

Title: Shaffron
Date: 17th century
Culture: Indian, possibly Deccan
Medium: Iron alloy, textile, leather
Dimensions: H. 26 3/4 in (67.9 cm); W. 18 1/4 in (46.4 cm)
Classification: Equestrian Equipment-Shaffrons
Credit Line: Purchase, Gift of William H. Riggs, by exchange and Friends of Arms and Armor Gifts, 2018
Object Number: 2018.65
Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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