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 example is composed of two links jointed in the middle. The large rings on each side were used to hang it from the bridle while the smaller ones were connected to the reins. Such bits and other harness 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.
The mouthpiece of this example is composed of two links jointed in the middle. The large rings on each side were used to hang it from the bridle while the smaller ones were connected to the reins. Such bits and other harness 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: Snaffle Bit
- Date: ca. 650–475 BCE
- Culture: European
- Medium: Copper alloy (bronze)
- Dimensions: W. 9 3/4 in. (24.8 cm); Wt. 5.2 oz. (147.4 g)
- Classification: Equestrian Equipment-Bits
- Credit Line: Gift of Stephen V. Grancsay, 1942
- Object Number: 42.50.484
- Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor
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Villanovan, possibly Bologna
8th century BCE
Greek or Italic
4th–1st century BCE
British
ca. 900 BCE
Irish
ca. 800–500 BCE
Greek
early 5th century BCE
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