Barry Cunlife - The Scythians

bending the bow
A Pazyryk horse complete with saddlecloth, saddle,
and bridle to a modern eye seems garish and encumbered
to the point of hindering the animal’s ease of
movement. The contrast with the functional gear worn
by the riding horses depicted on the Pontic metalwork
is, indeed, striking. It could be argued that such remarkable
finery was created specifically for the rituals associated
with burial but many of the items show evidence of
extensive use. A likely explanation, therefore, is that the
elaborate ensemble was designed for parade and for use
on ceremonial occasions rather than for everyday life or
the rigours of warfare. When visiting a Mongolian ger
today it is not at all unusual to find the owner’s highly
ornate saddle displayed prominently in pride of place
for guests to admire. It is there as a clear and immediate
indication of his status and prestige. The saddle for daily
use is kept well out of sight.
9.6 Bridle from kurgan 5 at Pazyryk made from leather and wood.
9.7 Detail of the gold comb from the tomb of Solokha (see Gallery, no. 5) showing a Scythian bridle in use.
237