Ave!

Terret, Roman Wagon Harness Fitting, c. 2nd-3rd Cent. AD

Copper alloy; 79mm/48.2gm

Con/ As cast; beautiful original glossy brown patina; cleaned and waxed. A craftsman proud of his work.

Ref/ A&L AA15.38 var.

Seller's Note/ A terret is a metal loop on horse harness, guiding the reins and preventing them from becoming tangled or snagged on the harness. The reins run from the hands of the driver, through the terrets, and then attach to the horse's bit to guide the horse. Most harness has two pairs of terrets, one on the harness saddle, and one on the hames of the collar (or on the neck-strap of a breast collar). Yes, I know all that is a bunch of confusing BS, so look at the accompanying photo to see how they actually were used. :-)

Concerning such terrets, in Roman Latin they were called disambiuatiae. We all know how the Legions marched, but they had any number of wagons with them carrying food, supplies, a portable forge, extra weapons, tents, a money chest and anything else needed when they made their daily camp.

Very rare in such sublime condition and perfect for shadow boxing.