Chanfrons

/ˈtʃænfrɑnz/ noun

Definition

Plural form of chanfron; multiple metal face guards or protective plates worn by horses in medieval warfare.

Etymology

Plural of 'chanfron' from French 'chanfrein.' The plural adds '-s' following English convention, while the singular retained French orthography.

Kelly Says

Museums displaying chanfrons side-by-side reveal that knights invested enormous wealth in horse protection—each piece was custom-fitted and often more elaborately decorated than the rider's own helmet, because a better-protected horse meant a better chance of surviving a joust.

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