Horse Muzzle

Dating back to ancient Rome, the muzzle was used to humanely restrain horses from biting other animals or people. This muzzle is one of many crafted in Germany during the reign of Elector John George II of Saxony (r. 1656–1680), as apparent from the arms of Saxony displayed on the crown. The spine of the bi-lobed frame below the crown bears a salamander, a creature that was believed to protect or give one supernatural powers. The lobes of the frame are rimmed with a German motto, the English translation of which is: “In every need 1658/God is my comfort,” thus testifying to the continuity of medieval tradition that equates the Christian knight and his armor with spiritual pursuits.