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All Gothic armour is rare but horse armour dated before 1500 is especially so. This horse-armour is remarkably complete, comprising a chanfron for the head, a laminated crinet for the neck, a hinged peytrel for the chest, two large plates covering the flanks, and a crupper in the form of a grotesque dragon with legs. There are also hinged plates to protect the bridle. The surfaces of the plates are broken up in the German Gothic manner with decorative flutings, and, in the centre of the peytrel, is a large grotesque mask embossed and chased in a style characteristic of the time.
More information
Title of artwork, date
Gothic Horse-Armour, c. 1480
Date supported
1958
Grant
1000
Total cost
8256
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