Vintage Horse 5 Brass Harness Medallion Collectible Metal Brass Horse Ornaments

Description

Vintage Leather Horse 5 Brass Harness Medallion Collectible Metal Brass Horse Ornaments
Crown, Camel, Desert, Moose, Horse, Jenny Jones, Saint
18" x 3"
HISTORY:
Horse brasses were used for both decoration and for protection for the horses. Horses were very important and their owners believed that the early amulet designs of the brasses kept evil spirits from harming the horses who were unable to protect themselves. The earliest designs were symbols and shapes which had specific meanings to ward off the evil and to bring good luck. Tradition has it that the ancient Greeks and Romans considered the crescent moon as a sign of good luck. From this belief thousands of horse trappings have borne this device. The sun god whose countenance was revered and held in awe by the ancient Persians who often sacrificed a horse in its honour, was most popular as a symbol. Many of the oldest horse brasses depict the stars, after the manner and belief of the Three Wise Men, who relied on one for guidance. Others include mythological motifs including the sacred lotus and the lyre of Apollo.