BRONZE AGE BRONZE HARNESS CHEEK PIECE

Ca. 2nd-1st millennium BC
A bronze cheek piece, composed of a round-section rod boasting an S-shaped profile, culminating in rounded cap heads at either end. Notably, the body of the cheek piece is distinguished by the presence of three ring holes, strategically positioned. Cheek pieces played an integral role in the assembly of horse harnesses, serving as crucial components for facilitating control and attachment. These cheek pieces were ingeniously designed to fit alongside the horse's face, enabling the connection of reins and other harness elements to direct and guide the equine companion. The ring holes found on the cheek piece allowed for the integration of additional features such as decorative tassels or ornamentation, further emphasizing the horse's status or the rider's social standing. The development of such harness accessories during the Bronze Age illustrates the significance of equestrian culture and the ingenuity of ancient civilizations in devising efficient means of transportation and equestrian control.
Size: L:130mm / W:20mm ; 55g
Provenance: Private UK collection; From an old London collection formed in the 1990s.
Estimate: GBP 200 - 300