About Antique Horse Bridles

Although not as common as other types of antique tack, antique bridles help document the history of equestrian activity. Most are made of thick leather, and the condition of the leather is used to determine the value of the piece. These bridles are not intended for use on modern horses, as they may be unsafe, but they are often used for decoration and displays.

  1. Time Frame

    • The definition of antique varies depending on the source. According to U.S. Legal, items can be classified as antiques when they have surpassed the 80- or 100-year mark. It can be difficult to determine the age of antique bridles, so a qualified appraiser is necessary. Even new bridles can look antique to the untrained eye if they are in poor condition. Additionally, it is possible for a bridle and its parts to come from different periods; an older bit with a newer bridle, for example.

    Features

    • Antique bridles tell a story based on where they were made and how they were used. Military bridles are among the most valuable, and are often identified by metal crests or insignia in the leather or on the bit. For example, a King George V antique bit bears a cheek boss with a crown and "GVR," indicating its time period. Antique bridles might contain all the parts of modern bridles, including cheek pieces, crown pieces, throatlatches, nosebands (cavessons) and browbands, but some consist of far fewer parts. Bits may or may not be included.

    Function

    • Antique bridles were once used for both riding and driving horses. Driving bridles often feature padded or raised nosebands, while riding bridles might have only the cheek pieces, crown pieces and reins. Decorative touches, from tassels to leather engravings, can help identify the origins of antique bridles. Most pieces of antique tack are no longer suitable for use, though this is particularly true of bridles. If the leather snaps, for example, the horse might step on his reins and the rider might be hurt.

    Considerations

    • Avoid purchasing antique bridles until they have been appraised by a qualified professional. Evaluate the quality of the piece, including the condition and flexibility of the leather, the finish of the bit and the strength of the buckles and straps. Incomplete antique bridles are considerably less valuable; if they lack reins, for example, or if a buckle is missing, the piece will be difficult to restore.

    Size

    • Antique bridles were built for the size of the horse, just as bridles are assembled now. Draft horse bridles are common because larger horses were used to pull buggies and carriages. Smaller bridles were used for riding or pulling, depending on the features of the piece, and it is sometimes possible to tell the breed of horse for which the bridle was intended. Racing bridles, for instance, were used on quarter horses or thoroughbreds. The length of the bit from side to side also can indicate size.

    Restoration/Storage

    • The restoration of antique bridles can be done by the buyer or by a professional. Simple leather conditioner is sufficient to keep the bridle in supple condition, and should be applied regularly to maintain the moisture level. Avoid exposing antique bridles to extreme temperatures or to excess moisture. If the bridle gets wet, wipe it down with a soft cloth and reapply conditioner or oil.