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LOT 0916
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]
ProvenanceFrom the collection of the famous author, writer and speaker, Gordon Bailey, Essex, UK; formed since 1968.
LiteratureCf. Junkelmann, M., Die Reiter Roms, Teil III: Zubehor, Reitweise Bewaffnung, Mainz, 1992, fig.100-102, for the type (type I of Junkelmann's classification).
FootnotesHipposandals (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.
CONDITIONTimeLine 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
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Roman Silver Decorated Dish
Circa 4th-5th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £416
Comprising a shallow bowl fitted with handles and raised foot, the rim engraved with petals. 39 grams, 95 mm wide
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