Collectible Equestrian Statue of King Richard the Lionheart in Armour

Collectible Equestrian Statue of King Richard the Lionheart in Armour

Majestic Pose and Historical Legacy

When you look at the proud and triumphant pose of the rider with his raised lance, you can feel the ethos of the Crusades. Richard I the Lionheart (1157–1199) was a renowned warrior and one of the most prominent figures of the European Middle Ages. However, as historians, we must point out one fascinating fact to you: although the figure bears King Richard's heraldic attributes, the armour the rider wears does not historically correspond to the 12th century. On the statue, you can see fully developed plate armour, including a closed armet helmet. This equipment is typical for the late 15th and 16th centuries. Thus, it is a beautiful, romanticized vision of a medieval monarch, which is very popular in classic historicism and traditional Toledo decorative arts.

Masterful Craftsmanship and Materials

The statue is designed for maximum visual impact. The horse itself is cast from durable black polypropylene, ensuring its stability and lightness. The armour of both the rider and the horse is masterfully crafted from hardened pewter. The metal parts are finished with a black electrolytic colouring and subsequently hand-decorated with red and white enamel. The luxurious overall look is completed by elaborate textile accessories – a blue velvet cape, a richly decorated caparison (barding cloth), and a felt banner with detailed embroidery of the three English lions. Everything stands on a solid base made of high-quality lacquered samba wood. This piece was created in Toledo, Spain, a city with a centuries-old tradition of blacksmithing and armour-making.

Table of Technical Parameters

How to Care for the Statue and Safety Warnings

To ensure this beautiful piece brings you joy for as long as possible, a few basic rules must be followed. The statue is intended strictly for indoor use; it is absolutely unsuitable for outdoor use, where humidity and sunlight would cause rapid degradation of the velvet and lacquered wood. Wipe dust off only with a dry, soft cloth or a delicate brush. Avoid using any chemical cleaners or water, which could damage the enamelling or the electrolytic colouring of the pewter. Also, keep in mind that this is a fragile decoration, not a toy. Because of sharp details, such as the tip of the lance, you should place the statue out of the reach of small children and pets to prevent it from being knocked over or causing possible injury.

Recommendation for Collectors

We recommend that you complement this unique equestrian statue with other decorative historical weapons or wall shields from our range to create a truly breathtaking chivalric display in your home.