From Newstead, Roxburghshire
This fragment of a leather saddle was found at the site of the Roman fort at Newstead in Roxburghshire. It was used sometime between 80 and 180 AD.
The strip of leather has one rounded end, which retains stitching holes. Approximately three inches back from the other end there are four feather-like points cut into the leather.
Roman cavalry horses were fitted with heavy leather saddles with horns, ornamented with a variety of metal fittings and pendants. Few examples survive, but they are pictured on gravestones and other Roman carvings.
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