Bit Boss
The rim of this bit boss is decorated with four fleurs-de-lis. At its center are the two interlaced Ls of King Louis XIV (r. 1643-1715) or, more likely, King Louis XV (r. 1715-1774), crowned at the top. What looks like a letter V behind the monogram is actually a very simplified representation of the two crossed palms often seen on this kind of composition.
This symbolism suggests that this boss decorated the side of a bit worn by a cavalry or a coach horse used by the French Royal Household.
This symbolism suggests that this boss decorated the side of a bit worn by a cavalry or a coach horse used by the French Royal Household.
Artwork Details
- Title: Bit Boss
- Date: first half 18th century
- Culture: French
- Medium: Copper alloy
- Dimensions: Diam. 3 5/16 in. (8.4 cm); Wt. 2.4 oz. (68 g)
- Classification: Equestrian Equipment-Bits
- Credit Line: Gift of Stephen V. Grancsay, 1942
- Object Number: 42.50.204
- Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor
More Artwork
A slider containing 5 items.
Press the down key to skip to the last item.
Press the down key to skip to the last item.
Jean Drouart
dated 1712
Master GG
hallmarked 1773–74
Multiple artists/makers
dated 1735
French
ca. 1670
Clemens Horn
1600–1625
Research Resources
The Met provides unparalleled resources for research and welcomes an international community of students and scholars. The Met's Open Access API is where creators and researchers can connect to the The Met collection. Open Access data and public domain images are available for unrestricted commercial and noncommercial use without permission or fee.
To request images under copyright and other restrictions, please use this Image Request form.
Feedback
We continue to research and examine historical and cultural context for objects in The Met collection. If you have comments or questions about this object record, please complete and submit this form. The Museum looks forward to receiving your comments.