HARNESS PENDANT

A near complete Medieval cast copper alloy heraldic horse harness pendant, probably dating to c. AD 1280-1400. It is only slightly damaged at the apex of its attachment loop.

The pendant is in the shape of a square topped shield, with straight top and convex sides meeting at a point at the bottom. From the middle of the top edge projects an integral loop set at 90 degrees to the plate. The loop has a short bar with a circular loop at the top which sits level with the back of the pendant and projects forward at the front. It is pierced by a circular hole (c.3.1mm diameter).

The front of the mound has a heraldic design of enamel. This comprises a red background and with an unclear design (possibly with three lions passant) with and a blue label (band) at the top. The label has three visible rectangles (points) hanging down.

The pendant is 42.2mm long (to the top of the loop), 25.5mm wide and weighs 13.73 grams.

Griffiths (1986) notes that horse harness pendants were at their most popular in the 14th century, but had originated earlier, potentially in the 12th. The heraldic description is: Gules three lions passant guardant in pale or, a label azure. These are the arms of England with a label of France and are those of the earls (and subsequently Dukes) of Lancaster. Similar examples on the database include: DOR-DEFB74, SUSS-8E0011 and  SWYOR-9DE267. See similar examples illustrated by Ashley (2002: 38). HESH-5A8529 Notes these arms were bourne by both the future Edward II heir 1284-1307 and Edward III heir 1312-1327. They may have decorated the horse of someone in Royal service or someone showing their loyalty to the heir.