Arms & ArmorEquestrian Equipment-Bits3rd century B.C.Snaffle Bit is a equestrian equipment-bits Rome of Thracian or Anatolian origin created in 3rd century B.C. using copper alloy measuring L. of cheekpieces 9 1/2 in. (24.1 cm); W. of mouthpiece 4… — now part of the Arms and Armor collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About This Artwork
| Medium | Copper alloy |
| Dimensions | L. of cheekpieces 9 1/2 in. (24.1 cm); W. of mouthpiece 4 1/2 in. (11.4 cm); Wt. 1 lb. 9 oz. (708.7 g). |
| Classification | Equestrian Equipment-Bits |
| Department | Arms and Armor |
| Credit Line | Gift of Stephen V. Grancsay, 1942 |
| Date | 3rd century B.C. |
Historical Context
Culture & Period
This work belongs to the Thracian or Anatolian culture. The estimated date range is 299 BC – 200 BC.
Geography
Origin: Rome. 
Frequently Asked Questions
What department houses Snaffle Bit?
Snaffle Bit is housed in the Arms and Armor department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
When was Snaffle Bit created?
Snaffle Bit dates to 3rd century B.C..
What material is Snaffle Bit made from?
Snaffle Bit is crafted from copper alloy.
Is Snaffle Bit in the public domain?
Snaffle Bit is not in the public domain; rights and reproduction restrictions may apply.
Data Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art Open Access · Last updated: April 2026