Brooklyn Museum: Arts of the Islamic World: Horse Trapping

Horse Trapping

This set of horse trappings represents the high technological and artistic skill of the Turkoman nomads of Iran and Central Asia. Best known for their striking abstract weavings and their large-scale personal jewelry, the Turkomans also produced highly refined decorations for their horses, greatly valued by their owners. Any respectable male member of the Turkoman tribe, however rich or poor, would own at least one horse, and frequently several. The Turkomans' love of horses is reflected in diverse ornaments produced only for them, including headpieces, breast bands, harnesses, and saddles. Horse trappings, such as this set, were often decorated with colorful glass stones that give the illusion of precious gems, while expensive materials, such as gold and silver, and time-consuming metal- and leatherworking techniques were employed to create these remarkable objects.

Culture: Turkoman
Medium: Leather and gilded silver applique and colored glass stones
Place Made: Iran
Dates: AH 1332 / 1913 CE
Dimensions: 40 x 3 1/2 in. (101.6 x 8.9 cm)
Collections: Arts of the Islamic World
Museum Location: This item is on view in BMA, EXHIBITION-2, Islamic 2W44
Accession Number: L1998.13.9
Credit Line: Promised gift of Monir Farmanfarmaian in memory of her husband, Abol Bashar Farmanfarmaian
Image: Overall, L1998.13.9_SL1.jpg. Brooklyn Museum photograph

Catalogue Description: Part of a set

Collections: Arts of the Islamic World: Horse Trapping