Saddlecloth (one of a pair)

Portugal, first half of the 18th century Dark green velvet with repoussé silver appliqués Coat of arms of the dukes of Cadaval Inv. 30 This dark green velvet saddlecloth is decorated with repousséd silver appliqués depicting stars and military trophies, with a silver coat of arms of the House of Cadaval in the centre. Finery of this kind was used at courtly celebrations such as processions and bullfights, covering the backs of the horses as they were led by hand: the absence of a saddle allowed the coats of arms to be seen and the horses’ owners to be identified. No other saddlecloths of similar size, adornment or lavishness have been found, even among those from the Royal House that have survived to this day. Demonstrating the pomp surrounding the aristocracy in the first half of the 18th century, these items are likely to have been used in ceremonies during the reign of King João V.