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Bridle ornament in the shape of a griffin
Near Eastern, Iranian, Scythian
Iron Age
7th–6th century B.C.
Medium/Technique
Bronze
Dimensions
Height: 2.5 cm (1 in.); diameter of opening: 1.4 cm; width at beak: 2.5 cm
Credit Line
Gift of Richard R. Wagner
Accession Number1970.511
CollectionsAncient Egypt, Nubia and the Near East
ClassificationsTools and equipment – Animal-related
DescriptionBridle ornaments such as this fastened the crossing cheekstraps of horses' headstalls.
The style of the birds and animals is closely related to the art of the Russian steppe, suggesting that these objects were used or inspired by the Cimmerians or Scythians, south Russian tribes that invaded Anatolia and Northwestern Iran during the seventh century BC.
The style of the birds and animals is closely related to the art of the Russian steppe, suggesting that these objects were used or inspired by the Cimmerians or Scythians, south Russian tribes that invaded Anatolia and Northwestern Iran during the seventh century BC.
ProvenanceBy 1970, Richard R. Wagner, West Barnstable, MA; 1970, gift of Wagner to the MFA. (Accession Date: November 10, 1970)