Bit Boss

second half 16th–early 17th century

Not on view

The domed center of this boss is decorated with a frieze of alternating cherubs’ heads and grotesque masks, circled by volutes and palmettes on the rim.

Bit bosses were ornamental elements decorating both sides of a horse bit. The hat-shape design, probably inspired by ancient shield bosses excavated at the time, was very popular in Italy and France in the 16th and early 17th century

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Title: Bit Boss
Date: second half 16th–early 17th century
Culture: Italian
Medium: Copper alloy, gold
Dimensions: Diam. 3 1/2 in. (8.9 cm); Wt. 4.8 oz. (135 g)
Classification: Equestrian Equipment-Bits
Credit Line: Gift of Stephen V. Grancsay, 1942
Object Number: 42.50.214
Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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