Mouthpiece of a Snaffle Bit
The snaffle bit is the simplest type of horse bit, and has an effect on the bars (part of the horses’ jaw without teeth) and the corners of the lips. The mouthpiece of this bit is composed of a single twisted bar. Rings for the bridle and reins, now lost, were attached to the side eyelets.
Such bits and other tack parts are found in male warrior burials associated with the Hallstatt culture, in which the use of the horse was a symbol of wealth and high status.
Such bits and other tack parts are found in male warrior burials associated with the Hallstatt culture, in which the use of the horse was a symbol of wealth and high status.
Artwork Details
- Title: Mouthpiece of a Snaffle Bit
- Date: 11th–8th century BCE
- Culture: European
- Medium: Copper alloy
- Dimensions: W. 4 1/8 in. (10.5 cm); Wt. 2 oz. (56.7 g)
- Classification: Equestrian Equipment-Bits
- Credit Line: Gift of Stephen V. Grancsay, 1942
- Object Number: 42.50.515
- Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor
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Western European, Langobardic
7th century
Western European
ca. 1400
probably German
ca. 1400–1430
French or Spanish, Catalonia
ca. 1400
German, probably Nuremberg
ca. 1500
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