Snaffle Bit

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This kind of bit was used in the German lands for horses carrying litters and pulling sleighs. The snaffle bit is the simplest type of horse bit, and it has an effect on the bars (part of the horses’ jaw without teeth) and the corners of the lips. The scatches, the flattened triangular elements composing this mouthpiece, were slightly stronger in their effect and more resistant than the traditional conical canons also used at the time. The rings on the sides would serve to hang the bit on the headstall and attach the reins, while the triangular extensions would to help to hold the mouthpiece in place and would press the sides of the mouth when reins are pulled, helping indicating direction to the horse.

Arms and Armor

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The principal goals of the Arms and Armor Department are to collect, preserve, research, publish, and exhibit distinguished examples representing the art of the armorer, swordsmith, and gunmaker. Arms and armor have been a vital part of virtually all cultures for thousands of years, pivotal not only in conquest and defense, but also in court pageantry and ceremonial events. Throughout time the best armor and weapons have represented the highest artistic and technical capabilities of the society and period in which they were made, forming a unique aspect of both art history and material culture.

Metropolitan Museum of Art