Branks

A kind of iron gag, branks were used on suspected witches and as punishment for crimes such as blasphemy, slander and 'scolding'. They were also known as 'witches bridles'. These branks date from the 17th century.

Branks fit over the head, with a projecting plate passing into the mouth over the tongue.

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Online ID:	000-100-001-352-C
Image Rights Holder:	National Museums Scotland
Project:	0098: National Museums Scotland Project description \| View all records in project
Ref:	National Museums Scotland H.MR 22
Date:	17th century
Material:	Iron
Dimensions:	220 mm H x 210 mm W
What:	Branks / gag
Subject:	Instruments, of torture (NMAS Classification)
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Event:
Description:	Branks or iron gag, with jointed bars to enclose the head, and a projecting plate to pass into the mouth
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