Bridle bit

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A bridle bit is used to control a horse. This iron example was found during excavations at the site of the Roman fort at Newstead in Roxburghshire. It dates from between 140 and 180 AD.

The bit is unusually well preserved. It is a type known as a curb bit. The projecting bar fits in the horse's mouth while the straight bar fits under its chin. The reins attach to the loops at the side.

The Romans used several types of horse bits. Some were used for riding, some for pulling carts and wagons, while some others could serve both purposes.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-100-037-052-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  X.FRA 497
• Date: Between 140 and 180 AD
  
• Material: Iron
  Bit, curb
  
• Dimensions:
• What: Bit, curb
  
• Subject:
• Who: Newstead Collection
  
• Where: Scotland, Roxburghshire, Melrose, Newstead
  
• Event:
• Description: Roman curb bit of iron, from Newstead
  
• References:
  • Curle, James. A Roman frontier post and its people: the Fort of Newstead in the parish of Melrose. Glasgow: Maclehose & Sons, 1911
• Translations:
• Related Records: