04.3.305,.326,.365,.371,.384,.429,.437

04.3.305,.326,.365,.371,.384,.429,.437

Identifier
04.3.305,.326,.365,.371,.384,.429,.437
Transfer of custody
Victoria and Albert Museum
Acquisition
Rogers Fund, 1904
Collection
Technique
Depiction
Production time
Production place

Description

Heraldry, or coat-of-arms, were vitally important in Europe throughout the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. Heraldic emblems were used to identify noble families, cities, regions, and even countries. In addition to being displayed on shields and flags, heraldry was incorporated into architectural decoration on the interior and the exterior of buildings, on furniture, works of art, clothing, and horse equipment. Harness pendants, like this example, would have been attached to a headstall, bridle, or other straps making up the tack of a horse ridden by a nobleman or noblewoman, or a member of their household. Many harness pendants also have decoration that is simply ornamental, or have symbols that are not specifically heraldic in nature.