caparison

A caparison is a decorative covering for a horse that serves to ornament and, at times, protect the animal. It is typically a large textile draped over the horse's body, often extending to the saddle area and sometimes covering the neck and head. Caparisons are usually richly colored and elaborately embroidered, and may include tassels, fringe, or metal fittings. They are distinct from armor.

Traditionally made of velvet, silk, or heavy wool, caparisons often bear heraldic devices or motifs associated with the rider or the host. The cloth is cut to fit the horse and is designed to enable the rider to control the animal through the reins and straps.

The term derives from Old French caparaçon, referring to a horse covering; the practice dates to medieval Europe, where caparisons adorned knights' mounts for tournaments, processions, and ceremonial entries.

In heraldry and iconography, a caparisoned horse is used to identify a knight or noble by displaying arms and colors on the horse. Representations in paintings and armorial prints highlight the prestige of the wearer.

Today, caparisons are chiefly found in ceremonial contexts, living-history events, mounted pageantry, and museum displays. They preserve medieval and early modern equestrian tradition and continue to symbolize grandeur and ceremony in some cultures.