Horse brasses ~ correctly known as “pressed brass harness decorations” ~ became popular in the 1850s.
They are brass plaques used for identifying and decorating harness gear; especially for cart, parade, and Shire horses.
It is unknown if horse brasses had a deliberate magical intent originally, as no English tradition of metal charms on horses exists previously, however it is likely that horse brasses replaced charms of other materials, as horses were seen as particularly liable to the attention and effects of malign forces, and anything eye-catching and shiny can protect against witchcraft and the evil eye.
Many English brasses depict lucky and fortuitous symbols such as the sun, crescent moon, star, horseshoe, sun cross, and wheel; and dogs, lions, and serpents are common, too.
Horse brasses are commonly used as apotropaic charms to protect homes. Apotropaic charms offer a shield of protection whilst repelling negative energies, magic, and forces. Horse brasses have been found up Welsh chimneys, and were used to protect carts on the streets of early 20th century London. They have been used as protective pendants on necklaces, and as altar decorations.
Modern horse brasses are being produced now. Alongside my collection of antique horse brasses I have also brasses for Stonehenge and Avebury stone circle.
Do you use apotropaic charms? Do you have horse brasses in your home?
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