Tournament horses, often referred to as destriers, played a pivotal role in medieval jousting tournaments, serving as the noble steeds of knights. These horses were specially trained for the demands of the joust, which required not only strength and agility but also a calm and disciplined temperament. Draped in elaborate and often highly decorative barding, tournament horses were a central part of the spectacle, showcasing the wealth and status of their owners.

The drapery, or caparison, worn by these horses was typically made of rich fabrics such as silk or velvet and adorned with the knight's coat of arms, colors, and heraldic symbols. The gold and black color scheme is particularly striking and historically significant, as gold often symbolized wealth and prestige, while black could denote power and authority. These colors would make the horse and its rider stand out during the tournament, adding to the visual grandeur of the event.