Loriners Guild

While we're on the subject of horses, even an expertly shod stallion would have been of little use during the Middle Ages if its rider wasn't equipped with a professionally made saddle and bridle. These accessories, along with harnesses, spurs, stirrups, and other items of equine couture, were supplied by the loriners' guild (the word "loriner" derives from the French "lormier," meaning "bridle"). The Worshipful Company of Loriners, in London, was one of the first guilds in the historical record, having been chartered (or at least created) in 1261. Unlike some other medieval English guilds, which have gone completely defunct or function today only as social or charitable societies, the Worshipful Company of Loriners is still going strong; for example, Anne, the daughter of Queen Elizabeth II, was created Master Loriner for the years 1992 and 1993.