TOUR OF THE MUSEUM Part 1 The Early Days

In order to document the early days of saddlery and harness the museum has to rely on models and illustrations. The invention of the carriage and its harness did not occur overnight. It cannot be credited to any one man, country or culture. Rather, it developed in varying ways around the world; a gradual process of adaption for specific requirements, terrain and culture of a particular area.
The earliest draught animal was probably man himself, pulling a sledge via a rope around his waist. Later man learned to harness the power of animals, although in the beginning it was more likely to be oxen rather then horses.
The model of King Ramesses II in his Ceremonial Chariot shows just how elaborate his harness was with precious stones, feathered plumes and engraved metals all used to embellish his turnout. Other illustrations of this king also show his horses covered in leopard skins in addition to leopards running alongside his chariot!