Bit Boss

17th century

Not on view

The center part of this horse bit boss displays the royal coat of arms of the United Kingdom, which consists, at that time, of the association of the arms of France, Scotland, Ireland and England. The shield is topped by a crowned helmet, circled by the Order of the Garter and flanked by the two traditional supporters of the British arms: a lion and a unicorn.

The pierced rim consists of a frieze alternating the French fleur-de-lis (France was an official claim for England since the 14th century) and the English rose.

Artwork Details

Overview

Signatures, Inscriptions, and Markings

Provenance

Title: Bit Boss
Date: 17th century
Culture: English
Medium: Copper alloy
Dimensions: Diam. 2 3/8 in. (6 cm); Wt. 1.5 oz. (42 g)
Classification: Equestrian Equipment-Bits
Credit Line: Gift of Stephen V. Grancsay, 1942
Object Number: 42.50.210
Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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