Name/TitleBit
About this objectThis is one of a pair, ref. also to STMEA:B.560. Made of iron, this type of bit was called a 'BUXTON COACHING BIT. The loops with the hooks, which held the curb chain, that passed under the chin of the horse, were those through which the cheek pieces of the bridle were passed. Below this there is another loop and a slot to which the two pairs of reins were attached. Either side of the crosspiece , which when worn was below the nose of the horse, there is a loop, of uncertain function, but possibly to secure a rope between a pair of horses. The original function of the crosspiece was to prevent the projecting side pieces of the bit from catching on an adjacent horse's reins, which would have impaired correct steering. The secondary function was when stationary a groom would have stood between the coaching horses holding the cross pieces to steady the horses, or to aid harnessing up to the coach.
Medium and MaterialsIron
MeasurementsLength of side pieces excl. hooks: 9 3/4 inches
Length of mouthpiece measured along post: 6 inches
Length of cross piece: 5 1/2 inches
Length of hooks 1 7/8 inches
Object Typebit
Object numberSTMEA:B.561
Copyright Licence
Attribution - Non-commercial (cc)
