Iron 'Hippo Sandal' Military Horse Shoe

1ST-4TH CENTURY A.D.

6 in. (363 grams, 15 cm).

Iron shoe with lateral curved plates with attachment rings rear panel with bar also for attachment. [No Reserve]

Provenance

From the collection of the famous author, writer and speaker, Gordon Bailey, Essex, UK; formed since 1968.

Literature

Cf. Junkelmann, M., Die Reiter Roms, Teil III: Zubehor, Reitweise Bewaffnung, Mainz, 1992, fig.100-102, for the type (type I of Junkelmann's classification).

Footnotes

Hipposandals (soleae ferreae) were used on horses with injured hooves, a sort of equine orthopaedic shoe used by the mulomedicus, i.e. a Roman military veterinarian. Another important function was that to protect the hooves of the horse from injuries and damages from hard objects. The hippo sandal of type 1 was formed from a sub-oval plate which tapered towards the front and rear with projections at the front, back and on either side. The heel was upturned at about 45 degrees and flared outwards. It would have terminated with a downward facing hook, now missing. The base of the sole was flat.

CONDITION

VETTING:

TimeLine Auctions follows a vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process

AUCTIONS:

TimeLine is a leading auction house specialising in antiquities, ancient art, collectables, natural history, coins, medals, and books. Our auctions offer museums, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire unique and historically significant pieces.

LOT 0916