Draught Pole Finial and Horse Trappings

Left:
CHARIOT DRAUGHT POLE FINIAL

Eastern Zhou dynasty, Warring States period (475 – 221 BCE)
Inventory number: XLIX:I:B.f.b.03.
Dimensions: 5.5 x 8.7 x 5.5 cm

The decoration of this draught pole finial is composed of small, abstract, coiled dragons that together give an overall impression of one large animal head. There is a loop at the bottom front of the finial, from which a ring is attached. The ring is decorated with S-shaped spirals.
Other than protecting the end of the draught pole on a chariot, the function of this finial is mainly decorative. It may have also added an element of intimidation for the viewer of the chariot and prestige for the owner.

Middle:
HORSE TRAPPING
Eastern Zhou dynasty, Warring States period (475 – 221 BCE)
Reportedly discovered in Shouzhou (centered in present-day Shou County, Anhui province)
Inventory number: XLIX:I:B.b.01.
Dimensions: 3.1 x 2.3 x 3.3 cm

The openwork section of this horse trapping is composed of two tubular sections and decorated with what appears to be intertwining serpents. There is a loop on the bottom from which an integral ring is attached. This objects was probably used to help organize the reins on a horse or chariot.

Right:
HORSE TRAPPING
Eastern Zhou dynasty, Warring States period (475 – 221 BCE)
Reportedly discovered in Shouzhou (centered in present-day Shou County, Anhui province)
Inventory number: XLIX:I:B.b.02.
Dimensions: 3 x 2.3 x 4.8 cm

This horse trapping is similar to the one in the middle. It also has an openwork section composed of two tubular sections that are decorated with intertwining serpents. The loop on the bottom is attached to an integral ring. There is additional decoration on either side of the ring. The decoration is corroded and difficult to see. However, it is likely meant to be coiled serpents or dragons. This horse trapping was probably used to help organize the reins on a horse or chariot.