Curb Bit

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

According to contemporary equestrian manuals, this mouthpiece was designed for a horse with a regular good mouth and a very thick tongue. This kind of bit, with its engraved, pierced and chiseled ornamentation, is a very common type of German 17th-century bit, found in many collections. They might have been pre-made generic bits, mounted with mouthpieces and shanks of regular strength suitable for most horses.

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