Chanfrein - Harnachement de cheval ottoman

Ottoman Empire, late 16th - early 17th century Metal equine armor for the head of characteristic elongated shape with a raised central panel tapering to the eyes, a central panel highlighted by a T-shaped central ridge acting as a penholder, the edges pierced with a series of holes for attaching the lining. 50 x 16.5 cm. The chamfer is probably the most decorated piece of armor. While the fundamental need to protect the horse's head remained the same, shapes and decorations varied greatly from the 15th to the 17th century. This piece of armor was used to protect the front of the horse's head, from the ears to the muzzle. The edges are pierced with holes for attaching chainmail rings, which in turn were intended to protect the horse's cheeks. Inside, the muzzle was probably padded with wool and lined with leather. Some were made of tombak (gilded copper), while others were made of steel. Those in tombak were much lighter than those in steel and were more often used for parades and ceremonies. A chamfer like this would have been used mainly for military purposes during battles, as steel offered greater protection. It was once part of the horse's complete chainmail and plate armor, and the rider was protected in the same way. Related work : Several examples of this type of T-chamfer are preserved in prestigious collections. See - Kjeld von Folsach: Art from the World of Islam in The David Collection, Copenhagen 2001, cat.no. 560 - Musée du Louvre, Inv. n°MAO 1223