Bit Boss

first half 18th century

Not on view

The rim of this bit boss is decorated with four fleurs-de-lis. At its center are the two interlaced Ls of King Louis XIV (r. 1643-1715) or, more likely, King Louis XV (r. 1715-1774), crowned at the top. What looks like a letter V behind the monogram is actually a very simplified representation of the two crossed palms often seen on this kind of composition.

This symbolism suggests that this boss decorated the side of a bit worn by a cavalry or a coach horse used by the French Royal Household.

Artwork Details

Object Information

Overview

Signatures, Inscriptions, and Markings

Provenance

Title: Bit Boss
Date: first half 18th century
Culture: French
Medium: Copper alloy
Dimensions: Diam. 3 5/16 in. (8.4 cm); Wt. 2.4 oz. (68 g)
Classification: Equestrian Equipment-Bits
Credit Line: Gift of Stephen V. Grancsay, 1942
Object Number: 42.50.204
Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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