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Bronze horse bit
Near Eastern, Iranian, Luristan
Iron Age
7th–4th century B.C.
Medium/Technique
Bronze
Dimensions
Height x width: 8.7 x 14.3 cm (3 7/16 x 5 5/8 in.)
Credit Line
Arthur Mason Knapp Fund
Accession Number44.71
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAncient Egypt, Nubia and the Near East
ClassificationsTools and equipment – Animal-related
DescriptionThis object is one side panel of a bronze horse bit. It depicts a stylized quadruped, likely either a long-necked donkey or horse. A hole in the center would have housed one side of a rod, while points of attachment of other bridle elements appear at top in the form of three bronze arcs. Subtle details include hair on the mane and a twisted tail. A green to greenish-white patina is exhibited by the metal, and some encrustations adhere to some areas.
ProvenanceBy 1944: with Charles L. Morley; 1944: purchased by the MFA for $150.
(Accession Date: March 6, 1944)
(Accession Date: March 6, 1944)