Gilded Copper Horse Bridle and Crupper

Tibetan and Himalayan equestrian equipment truly stands out in its aesthetic design. A combination of the same materials was used from the early 1500’s until the mid 20th century and their techniques hardly changed within this long amount of time. The main techniques are gold damascened ironwork and fire gilded copper, of which the latter seems the manner of manufacture of our bridle and crupper set.

The Tibetan style, mostly originating from Derge was populair for centuries, included in China where similar horse equipment was made for the local and Tibetan market. High quality saddles, stirrups and bridles were gifted and presented among nobilities and dignitaries to implicate rank and social status.

The bridle and bit:

Provides the mounted equestrian control over his horse by comprising the horse head. It consists of a fabric band which is decorated with cast and chiseled repoussé gilded copper mounts. The mounts depict dragons chasing a flaming pearl, a populair design which shows a deeper Bhudist auspicious symbolism. The iron bit is called ‘srab lcags’ in Tibetan and the two large bit rings are called ‘srab sgor’. The mounts are ‘T’ and ‘L’ shaped and feature ‘ruyi’ shaped finials.

The Crupper:

A part of horse mounting which is essential to prevent the saddle from sliding off. The crupper comprises the horses tail and is strapped on its back, behind the saddle. It consists of four fabric bands, formed into an ‘X’ shape and decorated with the same style fittings as on the bridle. The mid section of the crupper has a domed finial on which four straps are attached, also made of gilded repoussé copper depicting a fearsome dragon.

A rather rare piece of Tibetan style equestrian art from the 19th century, depicting auspicious symbols indicating luck, prosperity and good fortune.