This bit dates from the Spanish Colonial period, most probably the 18th Century The angled cheeks can still be seen in traditional Peruvian bits. It is hand forged in iron with a dark aged patina. The narrow mouthpiece has a central raised tongue with a roller on each side. The cheeks turn, They have incised decoration very like that seen on spurs of the same era. There are swivelling loops and chains at the ends of the cheeks to attach to reins. There is also a shackle or slobber chain joining the two cheeks and higher up the remains of another chain - possibly a curb, but the circular holes near the top of the cheeks probably held curb hooks.
Dimensions : Mouth 3½" (9cm), Cheek length not including rings 6" (15cm) Weight : 800g (1lb 12½oz)
