Mouthpiece of a 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 of this bit is composed of a single twisted bar. Rings for the bridle and reins, now lost, were attached to the side eyelets. Such bits and other tack parts are found in male warrior burials associated with the Hallstatt culture, in which the use of the horse was a symbol of wealth and high status.

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