Snaffle Bit

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The snaffle bit is the simplest type of horse bit, and has an effect on the bars (part of the horses’ jaw without teeth) and the corners of the lips. The mouthpiece consists of two square-section canons, half in bronze, half in iron, articulated in the center. The side rings retain the pear-shaped tabs with rivets used for hanging the bit from the bridle and one remaining simple straight tab on one side for attaching one of the reins. This bit is said to have been found in Lodi Vecchio, in Lombardia. Similar bits have also been discovered in 4th–5th century tombs in Crimea, possibly indicating the presence of Eastern riders in the Italian peninsula at this time, or at least any connection with Eastern equestrian cultures.

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