Tournament Horse Red (Papo)

Medieval tournaments were extravagant displays of skill, valor, and pageantry, with jousting being one of the main attractions. Tournament horses were specially bred for strength, stamina, and their ability to carry armored knights into combat. These horses were often adorned in lavish caparisons—ornate cloth coverings that bore the colors and heraldic symbols of the knight or noble they served. The caparison was both functional and decorative, protecting the horse from glancing blows and adding to the visual spectacle of the event.

In addition to the caparison, many horses wore protective barding, including head and neck armor, which combined function and grandeur. The selection of colors and symbols on a horse’s attire was often a reflection of the knight’s status, family, or affiliation, adding an element of identity to the jousting field.

Tournament horses needed to be calm under pressure, enduring the noise and excitement of the event while remaining responsive to their rider's commands. They were often celebrated alongside their riders, playing a crucial role in the knight's success. The Papo Tournament Horse Red figure serves as a vivid representation of these magnificent animals and the pivotal role they played in medieval tournaments, encapsulating the splendor and tradition of these historic events.