Bridle bit

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A bridle bit is used to control a horse. This enamelled bronze bridle bit was found at Burnswark in Dumfriesshire. It was used sometime in the first two centuries AD.

The bridle bit fitted in a horse's mouth and reins were attached to the rings. It is a three-link type, with enamelled decoration. The bit shows signs of wear, and has been strengthened in the past by riveting strips of metal underneath.

Although harnesses are rarely found, the bits, mounts, fasteners, studs, and strap junctions often survive. They must have been common items wherever horses were used in transport. Some examples, such as this one, were clearly meant for display.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-190-000-970-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  X.FA 29
• Date: Between 0 and 200 AD
  
• Material: Bronze; traces of red enamel
  Bridle bit, snaffle
  
• Dimensions: 9.00" L; ornamented rings 2.50" D
  
• What: Bridle bit, snaffle
  
• Subject:
• Who:
• Where: Scotland, Dumfriesshire, Annandale, Birrenswark
  
• Event:
• Description: Bronze snaffle bridle bit with elaborate projections into the ring interiors retaining traces of red enamel, from Birrenswark, Dumfriesshire
  
• References:
  • MacGregor, Morna. Early Celtic art in North Britain. Leicester: Leicester University Press, 1976, vol. 1, pp. 106-10; vol. 2, no. 2. 
• Translations:
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