Nine harness fittings, embossed and chased silver-giltv
Iran or Central Asia; 13th-14th century
Largest fitting: H: 7.1; W: 7.5 cm
Inventory number 12/2004
Miniatures from the Il-Khanid period show numerous examples of how the harnesses on the horses of high-ranking persons were decorated with precious stones and gilded fittings like these. In this respect, the Il-Khanids followed an ancient tradition that was common to many cultures.
These nine lotus-shaped fittings differ in size, since they were mounted on leather straps of varying widths. They belong to a group of 76 extant fittings that probably all embellished the same harness.
Together with the dragon and phoenix, the chrysanthemum, lotus, and other Far Eastern motifs were popular under the Il-Khanids.
These nine lotus-shaped fittings differ in size, since they were mounted on leather straps of varying widths. They belong to a group of 76 extant fittings that probably all embellished the same harness.
Together with the dragon and phoenix, the chrysanthemum, lotus, and other Far Eastern motifs were popular under the Il-Khanids.
