Bit Boss
The composition is probably based on a bronze plaquette, The Lion Hunt, made by Moderno (Galeazzo Mondella), ca. 1500 (see 18.70.5). German bronze founders would regularly use Italian medals or plaquettes as models for their works, including bosses, like this one, which decorated the sides of horse bits. They also produced similar decorative elements for powder flasks, staff weapons or even pistols. This Lion Hunt type was among the most popular designs, and could be combined with different types of rims (see also 42.50.163 and 42.50.180).
Artwork Details
- Title: Bit Boss
- Date: late 16th–early 17th century
- Culture: German, possibly Augsburg
- Medium: Copper alloy
- Dimensions: Diam. 2 7/8 in. (7.3 cm); Wt. 2.6 oz. (74 g)
- Classification: Equestrian Equipment-Bits
- Credit Line: Gift of Stephen V. Grancsay, 1942
- Object Number: 42.50.178
- Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor
More Artwork
Press the down key to skip to the last item.
Research Resources
The Met provides unparalleled resources for research and welcomes an international community of students and scholars. The Met's Open Access API is where creators and researchers can connect to the The Met collection. Open Access data and public domain images are available for unrestricted commercial and noncommercial use without permission or fee.
To request images under copyright and other restrictions, please use this Image Request form.
Feedback
We continue to research and examine historical and cultural context for objects in The Met collection. If you have comments or questions about this object record, please contact us using the form below. The Museum looks forward to receiving your comments.
Content Notice
The Metropolitan Museum of Art presents over 5,000 years of art from around the world, and our online collection reflects ongoing work conducted over the course of our more than 150-year history. You may encounter objects or images that may be inappropriate for some viewers or information that may be outdated.