Bridle bit

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

To search on related items, click any linked text below.

Online ID:	000-100-037-052-C
Image Rights Holder:	National Museums Scotland
Project:	0098: 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
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 Find in NLS: Title, Author, Title+Author or British Library: Title, Author, Title+Author
Translations:
Related Records:

< 1 of 1 > Back