Horse bit cheekpiece in form of a winged, human-headed quadruped
Flag of IranAncient Near Eastern ArtMetalwork-Equestrianca. 8th century B.C.

Horse bit cheekpiece in form of a winged, human-headed quadruped is a metalwork-equestrian of Iran origin created in ca. 8th century B.C. using bronze alloy, traces of iron, lead measuring 5.51 x 5.24 in. (14 x 13.31 cm) — now part of the Ancient Near Eastern Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About This Artwork

MediumBronze alloy, traces of iron, lead
Dimensions5.51 x 5.24 in. (14 x 13.31 cm)
ClassificationMetalwork-Equestrian
DepartmentAncient Near Eastern Art
Credit LineGift of Ernest Erickson Foundation, 1988
Dateca. 8th century B.C.

Historical Context

Culture & Period

This work belongs to the Iran culture, dating from the Iron Age period. The estimated date range is 800 BC – 700 BC.

Geography

Origin: Iran, probably from Luristan. Flag of Iran

Frequently Asked Questions

What department houses Horse bit cheekpiece in form of a winged, human-headed quadruped?

Horse bit cheekpiece in form of a winged, human-headed quadruped is housed in the Ancient Near Eastern Art department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

When was Horse bit cheekpiece in form of a winged, human-headed quadruped created?

Horse bit cheekpiece in form of a winged, human-headed quadruped dates to ca. 8th century B.C..

What material is Horse bit cheekpiece in form of a winged, human-headed quadruped made from?

Horse bit cheekpiece in form of a winged, human-headed quadruped is crafted from bronze alloy, traces of iron, lead.

Is Horse bit cheekpiece in form of a winged, human-headed quadruped in the public domain?

Horse bit cheekpiece in form of a winged, human-headed quadruped is in the public domain and can be freely used.

Data Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art Open Access · Last updated: April 2026

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