13th century

BnF Français 403 Apocalypse, c. 1240-1250

Hardware needed: 3 bridle bosses, 2 strap ends with loops. The browband appears to be two separate straps.


Hardware needed: 2 bridle bosses, 2 strap ends with loops.

Westminster Psalter, c. 1250

Hardware: 2 bridle bosses with rivets. The bit’s cheekpieces may be long metal shanks that go all the way up, but it is unlikely given the type of bit common to this time. The throat latch appears to be attached to the crownpiece by way of the leather strap that’s looped back onto itself.

Aquamanile in the Form of a Mounted Knight, ca. 1250

Hardware needed: 2 bridle bosses, several dozen decorative rivets. Note the odd lump on the horse's crown... this may be a buckle or other way of adjusting and attaching the bridle. Also note that the reins appear to be round - perhaps rope - with some sort of metal stops on them.

Morgan Bible (“Crusader Bible), c. 1250

Hardware needed: 2 long slotted strap ends, 3 dozen decorative belt mounts. This bridle is unique because it attaches via ear loops - no throatloatch, no crown piece, no browband. It also may have been woven instead of leather, with the belt mounts providing stability.

Hardware needed: 2 decorative strap ends with rivets, 3 dozen decorative belt mounts, buckle for throatlatch (presumed). This bridle may have been woven, with the decorative belt mounts used for stability.