What were antique horse brasses used for?

These brass ornaments were attached to the leather harnesses and martingales of heavy working horses and carriage animals. They served as decoration during transport and trade. In addition to decoration, many traditional designs were believed to offer protection or bring good luck to the horses and their owners on the road.

How should I display horse brasses at home?

Collectors commonly mount the brasses on their original leather martingales and hang them vertically on interior walls. This shows the traditional arrangement of the ornaments as they appeared on working harnesses. Alternatively, individual pieces can be displayed on shelves or mounted on wooden backing boards to highlight the cast metal details.

How do I care for antique brass?

Antique brass requires minimal cleaning to preserve its aged surface and dark patination. Dusting with a soft, dry cloth is usually sufficient for regular maintenance. Harsh metal polishes should be avoided because they strip away the historic patination that accumulates over centuries of handling and exposure.

How can I tell the age of a horse brass?

Dating relies on examining the casting technique, the weight of the metal, and the style of the design. Earlier examples often feature hand-finishing marks and heavier brass construction. The accompanying leather straps and stitching styles also provide clues to the period, as methods changed between the Georgian and Victorian eras.

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Antique Horse Brasses

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These antique horse brasses are the traditional cast brass ornaments once carried by working horses, sought after today for their rich metalwork and working history.

Magnificent Antique English Novelty Equestrian Inkwell - Horse C.1880

19th century

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Magnificent Antique English Novelty Equestrian Inkwell - Horse C.1880

From Puckerings

£895

3+ MONTHS AGO

miscellaneous

Antique English Oak & Brass Equestrian Crop Hook - Horse's Head C.1890

19th century

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Antique English Oak & Brass Equestrian Crop Hook - Horse's Head C.1890

From Puckerings

£595

3+ MONTHS AGO

miscellaneous

Pair of Decorative Victorian Brass Carrige Lamps

19th century

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Pair of Decorative Victorian Brass Carrige Lamps

From A Brookes

£185

3+ MONTHS AGO

lighting

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Antique Horse Brasses

Magnificent Antique English Novelty Equestrian Inkwell - Horse C.1880

Antique English Oak & Brass Equestrian Crop Hook - Horse's Head C.1890

Pair of Decorative Victorian Brass Carrige Lamps

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