Iron Barbed Shackle

An wrought iron barbed shackle, the precise purpose of which is unknown to us.

Clearly of considerable age, certainly circa 250 years; white painted inventory numbers to the inside suggesting an old collection.

The harnessing ring an old replacement, showing considerable wear from use, the original having broken away. The fact that the fixing at the closure remains accessible strongly suggests that this was made for an animal, the fold-over barbs being to protect the wearer from attack, as in dog collars from the 18th and early 19th centuries. It is substantial and yet the diameter is small.

Internal diameter 4.75 inches x 2 inches height.