From Middlebie, Dumfriesshire
This enamelled bronze rein guide from a yoke (also known as a terret) was found at Middlebie in Dumfriesshire. It was part of a hoard of 28 items, mainly objects for use on horse harnesses, deposited sometime in the first two centuries AD.
The rein guide is of a type called a 'platform-decorated terret'. It is in good condition, but shows clear signs of wear on the inside of the ring. The enamel is on the four circular knobs.
Leather on harnesses rarely survives, but the metal fittings and ornaments are often preserved. The rein guides range from plain to elaborate examples, some like this one ornamented with enamel.
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