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Peter Reynaers

This horse bit is a bronze piece belonging to the Roman Empire, dating from the 4th century AD. This equestrian accessory stands out for its excellent state of preservation and for its refined symmetrical design, in which two felines facing each other are represented, merging functionality and aesthetics in a single object.

This type of bit was part of the equipment of horses used in the Roman army and in ceremonial parades. The iconography of the intertwined felines suggests an influence from oriental and barbarian artistic traditions, fused with the late Roman style. In Roman mythology and iconography, felines were symbols of strength, speed and power, essential attributes both in war and hunting.

Bronze, the material chosen for its manufacture, not only guaranteed strength and durability, but also allowed the creation of ornate shapes using the lost wax casting technique. The open, perforated design of the bit indicates that it may have been used as a decorative element within the horse's bridle, possibly intended for high-ranking officials or for show horses at public shows and competitions.

The piece's refined workmanship and excellent state of preservation make it an outstanding example of Roman craftsmen's mastery in the manufacture of equestrian equipment, reflecting the importance of the horse in the military and social culture of the late Roman Empire.

Acquired from a Spanish private collection, F.C.B in the 80's.
- The piece includes authenticity certificate. 

The Seller can prove that the lot was obtained legally. Important information. The seller guarantees that he is entitled to ship this lot. The seller will take care that any necessary permits will be arranged, this process can take between 2 and 4 weeks.

IMPORTANT: Due to the new laws on the export of archaeological pieces, we have decided to NO LONGER sell outside the European territory for the following countries: SWITZERLAND & UNITED STATES of AMERICA.
For other destinations out of European territory: all our items will be shipped after obtaining a definitive LICENSE EXPORTATION by the Ministry of Culture of Spain. We inform our clients that it may take between 4-8 weeks. According to Spanish legislation, items sent outside the European Union are subjected to export taxes. The taxes will be added to the invoice, at the buyer's expense. These export fees are fixed on the final auction price and the tax rate is not applied directly on the total value of the item to be exported, but rather the different percentages by sections are applied to it:
Up to 6,000 euros: 5%. / From 6.001 to 60.000 euros: 10 %.


4th century AD - Unknown

Roman bronze horse bits - 9.5 cm

Archaeology

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54 (EU) / 14 (IT) / 6 ¾ (US)

55 (EU) / 15 (IT) / 7 ¼ (US)

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Archaeology

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Roman bronze horse bits - 9.5 cm

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