51/870

Martingale used to prevent a horse from rearing and throwing its head back.The fourth brass incorporating the Wool Merchants' symbol.
A martingale was used to prevent a horse from rearing and throwing its head back. It would hang between the horse's legs and is fastened to the collar and belly band. This martingale is ornamented with four brasses, the fourth brass incorporating the Wool Merchants' symbol, the first and third brasses with a variation of this design, and the second brass with a formal design and boss in the centre.

1 martingale: leather and metal [brass]; good condition

MERL 'Catalogue index' card – 'This martingale has four brasses. The bottom brass incorporates the Wool Merchants’ symbol which can be seen on many Cotswold tombstones, though apparently no historical reason for this has been advanced. The top and third brass have a variation of this design. The remaining brass is decorated with a formal design and a boss in the centre. // The martingale measures 37 inches in length. // See also 51/567L and 51/99M.', Previously recorded on Adlib as 'bracket strap'., No Lavinia Smith No. recorded.

Martingale, Horse brass

Rippon, Miss Dorothy May Lyddon (Agent)