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Playing Quintain
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Playing Quintain
In the Middle Ages the QUINTAIN was a popular attraction on the village green, This one at Offham, Kent, is the last surviving one in England. Date: Medieval
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14111557
© Mary Evans Picture Library
Attraction Horseback Lance Offham Quintain Surviving Games
EDITORS COMMENTS
In the heart of the English countryside, nestled among the rolling hills and verdant meadows of Offham, Kent, stands a relic of a bygone era - the last surviving Quintain in England. Dating back to the Middle Ages, this intriguing and captivating game was once a popular attraction on village greens across the land. The Quintain, also known as the Quintain Target or the Quintain Game, was a test of skill and dexterity for both horse and rider. The game consisted of a tall, wooden post with five metal rings suspended from its top. The objective was for the rider, atop a galloping horse, to spear the rings with a lance as they spun around the post. The challenge lay in the speed and agility required to hit the rings while maintaining balance on the horse. This evocative photograph, taken in the quaint village of Offham, transports us back in time to an era of knights, chivalry, and village festivities. The woman in the image, dressed in period attire, adds an authentic touch to the scene, further emphasizing the historical significance of this unique and intriguing game. The Quintain, with its rich history and captivating allure, continues to fascinate and intrigue us, offering a glimpse into the past and the simple joys of medieval life. This last surviving example, standing proudly in Offham, serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of history and the traditions that have shaped our cultural heritage.
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