Are horse brasses valuable?

Since World War I, horse brasses have proliferated and become collectible by people who rarely see a horse. But the brasses are highly valued as memorabilia of place or location both by British residents and foreign visitors.

What was the purpose of horse brasses?

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.

What are horse brasses made of?

All the earliest known horse brasses are hand made from sheet or latten brass. They were cut out using hand tools and were often hammered into shape. One of the easiest ways of recognising a handmade brass is by the hammer marks on the back. They are, however, very rare and prized by collectors.

Where do horse brasses come from?

Since man first domesticated horses, we have been using decorative talismans to protect these valuable assets from evil spirits, and horse brasses as harness decorations first appeared in England in the 18th century.

How old are horse brasses?

Stamped brasses on heavy horse harness appeared on the scene around 1880, with a small number occurring perhaps a decade or so earlier, and it is highly likely that the process developed from one that was already established in the manufacture of carriage harness trappings and military insignia.

How do you clean old horse brasses?

Instructions:

1. Check to see if it’s really brass.
2. Squeeze half a lemon into your bowl.
3. Add your baking soda.
4. Stir the baking soda and lemon mix until it forms a delicious smelling paste.
5. Use a soft cloth and apply the paste.
6. Rinse off the paste and dry.
7. When you’re done, give the brass a really thorough rinse.

Why are horse brasses in pubs?

Horse brasses were developed in the 17th century to decorate and identify draft horses and are very collectible. In England you see them decorating the beams in pubs or hung by the fireplace in homes.

What are horse decorations called?

A caparison is a cloth covering laid over a horse or other animal for protection and decoration. In modern times, they are used mainly in parades and for historical reenactments. A similar term is horse-trapper.

Are brass ornaments valuable?

It’s true that brass – even what you might consider scrap – can net you some cash. Many people have brass around: ornaments, key rings, old brass instruments, candle holders, hardware, or even shell casings can be worth money. If you’re looking to unload some brass, you have a couple options: selling or pawning.