Antique 19th Century Tibetan Horse Bridle Buddhist Endless Knot Iron Leather For Sale

Exceptional antique Tibetan horse bridle, probably dating to the 19th century, constructed from extensively worked leather with iron and white-metal fittings. The bridle is ornamented with repeated circular pierced fittings depicting the Buddhist endless knot, one of the traditional auspicious symbols of Tibetan Buddhism.The construction is particularly striking, incorporating braided and wrapped leather/rawhide sections, numerous individually fitted ribbed metal collars, hand-worked junctions and substantial iron hardware. The various materials display extensive, consistent age and wear throughout. Comparable Tibetan bridles employing leather, iron and elaborate metal fittings are held in major museum collections. The bridle measures approximately 17 inches long, exclusive of the bit. The iron bit measures approximately 12 inches across from side to side. Two rawhide straps extend from the bit and appear to have served as attachment points for reins; reins are not present or included. The bridle is adjustable at both the chin strap and the upper portion that would pass over the horse’s head.The piece is in untouched antique condition with substantial age-related wear, including stiff and dry leather, surface wear, oxidation and corrosion to metal components, discoloration, cracking, fraying and losses consistent with considerable age and use. Please examine all photographs carefully as they form an important part of the condition description.The bridle has not been cleaned, polished, conditioned or restored.