British Royal Commemorative Brass Horse Brasses on Leather Straps
Decorative art, equerry memorabilia, mounted brass castings on leather • Unattributed British manufacturer or harness maker (Mass-produced commemorative equestrian gear)
Style & Movement
British Traditional Folk Art / Equestrian Memorabilia
Medium & Technique
Cast brass medallions mounted on traditional black bridle leather straps
Creation Period
Mid-20th century (circa 1937–1953 or later, following the final monarch represented)
Dimensions & Format
Vertical wall-hanging straps, approximately 36 to 48 inches in length each
Subject Description
A collection of British royal commemorative horse brasses featuring profile portraits of British monarchs spanning from Queen Victoria to Queen Elizabeth II. The brasses include depictions of Queen Victoria (Record Reign 1837-1897), Edward VII, George V and Queen Mary (1911), Edward VIII (1936), George VI and Queen Elizabeth, and Queen Elizabeth II (Silver Jubilee or Coronation). Arranged vertically on shaped black leather martingale straps.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good. The leather shows signs of age with minor stiffness and surface wear, while the brass elements exhibit a natural warm patina with slight tarnish appropriate for age.
Estimated Market Value
150 USD - 300 USD
Auction Estimate
100 USD - 200 USD
Provenance History
Likely collected as a set of British patriotic equestrian memorabilia, traditionally used for decorating heavy horses or displayed as interior wall decor in British homes or pubs.
Art Historical Significance
These items represent a rich tradition of British folk art and public commemoration, capturing milestones of the British monarchy through functional equestrian hardware.
Notable Features
The sequential chronological display of successive British monarchs from Queen Victoria to Queen Elizabeth II makes this matched pair of martingale straps a particularly complete and collectible run of royal commemorative horse brasses.
Condition Issues
Minor surface tarnish on the brass castings and standard age-related drying, scuffing, and wear to the leather straps.
Conservation Recommendations
Clean brass gently with a non-abrasive cloth to preserve the natural patina. Treat leather straps with a suitable leather conditioner to prevent further drying and cracking. Hang away from direct sunlight and high humidity.