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Bronze bridle ornaments
Near Eastern, Anatolian
Iron Age
7th–6th century B.C.
Medium/Technique
Bronze
Dimensions
3.2 x 2.4 cm (1 1/4 x 15/16 in.)
Credit Line
Mary L. Smith Fund
Accession Number1972.924
CollectionsAsia, Ancient Egypt, Nubia and the Near East
ClassificationsTools and equipment – Animal-related
DescriptionBridle ornament in the form of an ibex. Such objects fastened the crossing cheekstraps of horses' headstalls. The style of the birds and animals is closely related to the art of the Russian steppe, suggesting that these objects were used or inspired by the Cimmerians or Scythians, south Russian tribes that invaded Anatolia and Northwestern Iran during the seventh century BC.
Provenance1972, sold by Richard R. Wagner (b. 1907 - d. 2002), West Barnstable, MA, to the MFA. (Accession Date: October 11, 1972)