Discover centuries of collars
A selection from Leeds Castle’s historic collar collection is currently on display in a single gallery, offering a glimpse of a collection that spans five centuries.
The earliest collar in the collection dates back to the late 15th century: a Spanish iron herd mastiff’s collar, which would have been worn for protection against the wolves and bears that roamed Europe at the time. Later pieces range from sixteenth-century German iron collars with fearsome spikes to 20th-century examples fashioned from tyres, beads and plastic.
In 1977, Mrs Gertrude Hunt presented her collection to the Leeds Castle Foundation in memory of her husband, the historian John Hunt. Mr and Mrs Hunt were both avid collectors and amassed a large collection of art and antiquities, but collars were Mrs Hunt’s particular passion. Further collars have since been added through purchase and donation.
Our curatorial team is currently reviewing the collection, including its history and how it is presented, and the display may change as this work continues. Researchers wishing to access the wider collection can contact Enquiries@leeds-castle.co.uk.
