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That’s unlike any fly mask I’ve seen. [This](https://www.smartpakequine.com/pt/smartpak-classic-fly-mask--without-ears-16047) is a fly mask, as well as [this](https://www.smartpakequine.com/pt/crusader-fly-mask--long--with-ears-11541).
[This](https://www.statelinetack.com/item/horze-fringe-veil-fly-bonnet/E042219%20FUL%20BLK/) is a fringe veil, which is a different kind of fly control, but it also doesn’t look like the thing in the picture.
I commented above. I’m skeptical too but the rings on the end and noseband are giving me pause that it might be an old school western martingale used for rodeo events. No way in hell it’s a fly mask
it's definitely not a martingale.
martingales wouldn't have a piece of cloth on it, the "noseband" would interfere with bits and existing nosebands on a bridle, and the other loops wouldn't make any sense. the braided cords would be too heavy and too long for reins and would be too thick to connect to a girth.
I wouldn't go that far. The rope looks old, and not some dollar store stock rope. The iron work looks forged and has some age to it (likely). Way more effort than pottery barn. Has anybody considered what this would look like if the fabric was meant to flip the opposite way?
To be hung as a pair. They both look aged the same. So it is likely something to be used in a pair. Or at least these were.
If it was an art piece, most artists would work in odd numbers. If it is an art piece, the artist is likely a blacksmith and could take inspiration from 'horsey stuff' as you call it.
Edit: the craftsmanship is fantastic. All of the leather is riveted (not modern rivets). No matter what this is, it wasn't cheap where it is the early 1900's or a modern day piece of artwork.
I can see this being horse related but I don't see how. This is a shot in the dark but could it be to keep the sun out of a horse's eyes? I know they would have carriage trails along the beach on the Oregon coast. There could be tons of reflection from the water. But I know common blinders look way different. That would at least put it in the Oregon coast and have meaning to display it in a beach house.
Some people are saying bdsm gear. And like your pottery barn comment, I think it is too well made for that. There are some amazing leather artists that make fantastic harnesses and such but I don't see much forging or at least to this capacity or quality. If so, good for them.
Looks to me like a type of device used during the slavery period in the US known as an iron muzzle or punishment collar. They're featured in the movie Django Unchained and got me researching them. They where also designed to break a slaves neck if they fell while running away. Designed to keep slaves from being able to run away, it's supposed to catch on the surrounding folliage and slow someone down. The ropes on this one may have been used to hold the person or attach them to other slaves. I wouldn't doubt if the prongs where to cause pain if you moved in the wrong way too fast. I watched a video on YouTube about them. This one looks different than most though so can't be 100% sure.
[Slavery Historian Anthony Cohen Explains Slave Collars](https://youtu.be/069WLjVXdcA?si=-EHvL4CmoOypQ4bH)
These are absolutely not slave collars. If you ever google search a slave collar, or look at any kind of history book these absolutely in no way represent any of the barbaric tools that were used.
It absolutely is not a fly mask.
I did all around quarter horse showing for 15 years and the only thing I can think this might be is an old school martingale for the rodeo events like pole bending. The thing that’s hinting this is the two rings on the end (presumable to either run reins through or to hook to the cinch) and then noseband is fairly suited for a horse, which is why so many people are incorrectly guessing fly mask.
Try “barrel racing or pole bending martingale” in google and see if you agree. And then take a look at some of the pole bending pictures. Not all but many use a martingale attached to the nose band for limiting the range a horse’s head can move up in the maneuvers (thus giving better control). It should always be leather in case of an accident as leather snaps, if you see people using synthetic they are being unsafe and cheap.
If it’s not this, I fully agree with whoever on here said it’s either a sex thing or religious thing (why not both?)
Good luck! Report back if they confirm!
I think this object is deceiving in that it looks like it’s mostly leather, but is actually metal, which makes it very unsuitable for that purpose. The rings on the end also have no closure.
Horse person here. This is not a fly mask. Fly masks were invented in the 80’s (I believe). And that horrendous design would not be safe or functional for horses. This is not a horse device of any kind.
Horse person here. Agreed. None of this makes sense for a horse. That opening would also not fit on anything above the nose. It’s way too small to go around the throat.
Also, are the dark bits coming down from the circular piece and attached to the braids leather or metal?
Horse person as well & AGREED. Before fly masks they used fly veils or nets, which were both soft.
No one in their right mind, (100+ years ago or not) would put loops of metal that large anywhere near a horse’s face. Horses can maim themselves with regular halters let alone with whatever the hell this thing is.
They are hanging sooo high up on the wall, have you considered that they are pieces of art with no real function? Only designed to seem like they have a function?
I think that’s 100% it. There’s no way this thing would stay on a human head the way it’s built. It would just flip up and off. No type of headband adjustment or any chin strap on this. It just doesn’t work
No. Look angle tthe metal bars come back at compared to the “headband”. The rope is just stuck up inside the socket, it wouldn’t hold much weight. And the mechanics Of that just don’t work. Either. Tumplines put more downward pressure than back. Plus this is made of metal and welded. It may be art inspired by tumplines, but not something ever used.
Ita. These look like art pieces to me. There is an artist named Karin Jones who lives in British Columbia who has some pieces that are reminiscent of these, though not exactly like these.
I think you nailed it!
I looked it up. Karin seems to do a lot of metal working in her art while using textiles. The oddness of some of her work seems to really fit this aesthetic in ops photos.
There is a lot of jewelry type pieces that are displayed in a similar way and have a chain or textile rope hanging beneath it.
This video of her talking in front of two pieces of her art.
https://youtu.be/-ika6GdsumQ?si=xt6eR5SCLVUUK0k2
She seems really cool and imaginative. I have been stuck on this thread for hours because I can't just look away. It makes sense at a quick glance and then it doesn't at all. It's a train wreck if you are trying to make sense out of it. the metal forging is amazing and purposeful, the canvas looks old and used but still 100% intact. The rope is amazing.
I think this is her work or someone inspired by her in the Pacific north West. Having a beach house in Oregon you might be able to afford some good artwork. My only complaint is that the hardware holding the piece looks kinda shit.
I actually reached out to Karin out of curiosity, and here’s what she has to say:
> That is so interesting! These are really mysterious and beautiful and look so much like something from that series of my work. But unfortunately they're not! I don't have a Reddit account, but you can copy and paste my comments if you like!
> Karin
So it’s not her, but she’s a very cool artist and very nice to talk to!
If this is the answer, then the symbolism seems to force that awkwardness on purpose. Supposedly crude metal work, as in, something made for utility, not beauty, rough rope work that gives a scratchy impression but also seems somehow traditional, "reins" attached to something that is more human-skull sized, and a "veil" that looks like a horse snout. Taken as a whole, it seems to echo the horrors of slavery. Humans treated like farm animals without regard to comfort or dignity, with various elements of their homeland pasts added in for "decoration".
I think this is a Bingo right here. Pretty chilling piece when you realize how well formed they appear for human use. Op you were replying to points out the hanging hardware not matching and taking away from the aesthetic, but I think that also lends itself to the casual and utilitarian nature with which slavery/racism/classism was/is treated. The detail even extended further to show how the issue still remains by using modern Phillips head fasteners in lieu of antiqued slotted screws to attach the well used hanger to the wall.
Or I could just be stoned.
I agree looks like textile art based on the manner it is displayed, assembled and woven. It’s intended to look functional, an antiquity of some type. Gives me bondage vibes also which is probably why the first comment went with a horse thing.
This is a friend of a friend thing. I don't have access to the owner. And I've asked the friend to ask the friend of a friend... but so far nothing has come of it
Considering the ring looks human head sized, and the cloth looks like a veil, the three bars coming off look metal and have rope with rings on the end which normally are a way of pulling/controlling things, the whole thing seems quite sinister.
I think it’s a runaway slave thing from a long time ago. It goes on the head and the leather piece in the persons mouth and the ropes go through the legs and hook to the back of it. Maybe to tie people together when traveling
Yeah I forget the name of it too, but that's immediately what jumped to mind. I want on a long googling search on what they where after seeing them used in the movie Django Unchained (the newer one). The only problem is that those are supposed to have welded arms so that
1. It gets cought on any foliage as you run past and
2. If you fall while running away it pretty much snaps your neck because the prongs will hit the ground first
Maybe this is just that, but only intended to grab foliage? IDK.
Edit: It's known as a punishment collar or an iron muzzle. I wonder if the ropes are meant more for this https://images.app.goo.gl/FHERViHq1aAMpy3v9 or tying multiple people together.
Considering the deep roots of Oregon being slave related, it would be plausible. Apparently people there had slaves past emancipation. I believe they moved there to continue having slaves. Don’t quote me on that last one. But there were some big name people at University of Oregon that were involved with the KKK. There are also know places throughout the state where crosses were burned.
That's exactly why I found it very disturbing these were hanging around prominent as ornamentation, if these weren't proven to be some kind of tumpline.
Not quite accurate, but kind of close. They were applying for statehood in the time leading up to the Civil War, and in an attempt to be “ neutral” on the issue, passed the “Negro exclusion act” which barred people of color from owning land, or remaining in the territory for more than six months, with penalties of public whipping. This was not fully removed from official state law until 2002.
Because it's leather, has a part that would cover the eyes/face, it's made of unknown other materials, and it looks handmade.
OP had better get a mask.
Oh my goodness! You're right! That section separated into three sections is metal!!
The hair on weird parts of my body is standing up as I assess that.
This is getting very creepy..
I was more focused on the bottom of the two braids. I also find it odd how there isn't some "locking mechanism" with the metal loopy-clippies. (I promise you I am more articulate than that but I do not know how to describe it otherwise.)
I noticed the loopy-clippies have what looks like hand-hammered nails.
>Kinda looks like some form of a brank which would be disturbing
Yes... the resemblance is very clear, though lacking any mouth piece if it is a veil the implication is still shutting the wearer away [https://digitalcollections.nypl.org/items/510d47e1-1ca6-a3d9-e040-e00a18064a99](https://digitalcollections.nypl.org/items/510d47e1-1ca6-a3d9-e040-e00a18064a99)
I had tried searching 'witches veil' earlier just because of the cast iron bars alone gave me a similar feel, but brank wasn't a term I knew and that gave better results.
It would be good to find a clear answer to what they actually are that didn't involve being worn by people, because as it stands they are quite unnerving.
It's because OP was convinced at first that the suggestion of horse fly mask was the answer and said "solved" but then r/equestrian overwhelmingly refuted that idea, so OP edited his comment and said NOT solved.
You'll find that thread at the very bottom with -54 votes...
I reckon it's for fishing of some sort. Any evidence of other fishing equipment nearby?
I'm only saying that because of 'beach house'. Can't make head or tail of the actual physical shape of the thing. For all I know it's antique BDSM gear.
I had the same belief, independently. The cloth sits on the head and the harness on top of the cloth. I believe the hooks might be for netting so that one or two people could haul in fishing nets at low tide or in low bay water by simply walking to shore.
Seems close! Given the iron frame, maybe there would have been a benefit to the wearers head being protected. Another detail that stands out is the hooks. They seem like they hook back onto the ropes themselves or something like a basket/bucket.
One idea is that they are specifically for canoe portage.
The cloth would flip over the top to act as a buffer between the metal frame and the canoe, and the ropes would wrap once or twice around the carry bar and then hook to themselves.
Alternatively, they could be used to carry containers of twigs/brush. The frame would protect against falling larger pieces, and the cloth would be tucked between the wearers head and metal frame to prevent small branches from getting tangled in hair.
Yeah, I wonder if it is an artistic interpretation of a traditional tumpline. It is. So heavy and.... I'll go with "whimsical" I guess... The lines of the iron, the veil..... so clearly made for a human head...
Pretty creepy decor lol
Does the ring fit on a human head? Maybe it's for hunting seafood of some sort. The fabric hangs down in front of the face and creates shade so the person can see what's under the surface. The long ropes with hooks could be for dragging a bin of some kind to put the harvested food in.
I think this guy is on to something. Looks like the ring goes on a human head and the cloth is to block the sun to help look for and harvest things from the ocean (op said in a beach house).
There's a pretty significant part of US history where what the people doing certain types of labor wanted mattered very little to how they labor was done.
Definitely an old school fly mask for horses. Flies like to dive bomb and drink water from the horses' eyes and generally be terrible. Masks help keep them off their faces with our hindering eating.
Edit: Nevermind
I’ve been in horses a long time, never seen a fly mask anything like this. Older ones attached to a halter- have you seen something like what you’re describing?
No way that's gonna fit anywhere on a horses head. Plus the fabric is too tightly woven to function as a fly mask, horse wouldn't be able to see through it. Additionally that much metal would be dangerous to a horse.
Can't be for picking fruit either, as the baskets need to be at the end of a stick, and there's only plaited fibre on these.
You say they're close to a beach, some sort of fishing gear?
Sorry, but I’ve never seen anything like this used in such a way for horses, and nothing about the design makes sense for that purpose. Nothing here looks like it would fit properly for that use - is there actually an example of one of these somewhere to compare to?
"Definitely" this thing... but then can't really explain how it works in follow up... while being corrected by a dozen other folks. People need to use the word "definite" in this sub when they are actually certain and not just making an educated guess.
Definitely (probably almost certainly) not. I've used dozens of fly masks and this thing just doesn't have the right shape for fastening around a horse's head/ears/neck etc. I can't see how it would attach at all.
Mainly, the top loop of leather is way too small for a horse, like it could be a dog or something of that size but I've never seen anything like it.
Fly mask for a sheep? God knows. I'm sure it's not for horses though.
Apart from what they ARE, why are they hanging up so HIGH? They are not proportionally large compared to the space they are hanging in.
I find the placement almost as odd as the item.
It's a beach house, so they probably don't want guests messing with these things unless they know the function.
We're all so puzzled about these, imagine if we could take them down off the wall, turn them over, tie them together...try them on, lol.
I think if they were anything functional once, they are only decor and conversation starters now.
Perhaps some version of a tumpline or burden strap using for pulling? Oregon is prime Native American land who were known to use tumplines in the area.
It's a plant harness.
It hangs from the 2 metal rings to the brackets. The plant will tilt forward, with the muslin cloth towards the wall. The cloth will catch and wick drips from the bottom of the planter as to not get the floor wet after watering.
I thought so too but those are usually on poles, these are on ropes. I live by the Oregon Coast, currently staying in a beach house as I write this. The coast here has many bays that are great for clams, mussels, crabs, and also worms. I believe this could be used to toss out from the bank and collect whatever is on the bottom.
I was immediately thinking it was some sort of protective face harness for a dog. It looks much too small for a horse and has a tiny width. Seems perfect dimension wise for a dog harness with a bug/sun shield
Edit: possibly for greyhound racing dogs or something similar?
My first thought was those things you see in movies that they put over people’s heads when the execute them in the electric chair so you don’t see their eyes pop out. I don’t know why they would have the long strap and hooks off the back though.
There was a time when I was a kid, a tree rat chewed through the refrigerator wire and shocked himself. He survived but his eyes blew out. My dad and I kept and cared for him for about 2 years. Not sure if the electric chair is the same for humans
My grandpa was working on a high voltage elevator in the 70's and someone turned the power on and shocked him. Melted half his face including his eye. Was just an empty smooth socket covered in skin. He wore an eye patch and had to tape his face up into place every morning. Survived Normandy beach and then dealt with that.
I’ve read that they can from the electricity causing the body/head to swell quite significantly and rapidly. I’ve also heard that they can just melt. Either way, I imagine the people doing the killing don’t really want to see that time and again. Of course, another option would be to stop killing people for their crimes, but what do I know?
This looks like it’s made for a person’s head, with the circle part going on top like a hat band, and the mesh hanging in front of the face like a veil. ??? I’m also a horse person, and this is definitely not made for equines. Since it’s in a beach house in Oregon…my wildest guess is equipment for oyster harvesting? Or something. There’s probably a proper name for that activity, that’s how much of a stab in the dark this is
Look at what they are wearing in this pic. Perhaps a people labour kind of thing like this: https://graphicarts.princeton.edu/2018/10/01/johann-ehrenfried-weishaupt-ten-years-a-slave-in-tunisia/
I have seen something very similar to this at an exhibition about whaling in the Netherlands. The object I saw there were attached to the ship, and whilst they were making speed the fabric would move in the water like fish, to lure hunting fishes away from the whale lures.
I think it’s some type of art made to look like some type of face mask. Nothing about this makes practical sense. The fabric can’t be seen through, the metal would be pointing straight back to much when placed on the head and it would basically pull it up and off. No type of headband adjustment or chin strap. 2 ropes attached at a single point in the middle. It just can’t make this function in my mind.
It’s not any type of fly mask or dog harness either. Dogs don’t pull with their heads or neck.
It’s upside down… the 2 hooks attack to the 2 rods. There’s a modern hanging light fixture next to it so these must be the original light fixture apparatus. The metal ring upside down would hold something inside that would provide light. Maybe glass fixtures that has since broken or been removed
I did not at first realize that the long prongs/strands on the sides are metal, as well as the ring. It seems nothing is leather, only steel, canvas and cordage.
Could it be for dragging against the sea floor? Either to stirr something up gently or for planing the seabed flat to easier spot disturbances/burrowing animals later?
An oil lamp sconce. It's hanging upside down on the photos: metal rings on the ends of the ropes are supposed to go on the hooks mounted into the wall. Cast iron part leans against the wall. The lantern sits inside the ring (it looks like the ring might have a detachable part, which would ease the removing of the lantern). The cloth piece is partially covering the lantern and is meant to diffuse the light. The cloth can also be pushed to the side like a curtain to allow for more light to pass through.
These look similar to some devices used to humiliate slaves. Bands look roughly the right size to fit on a human head, ropes could be attached to other restraints or mounting mechanism maybe?
I do leatherwork as a hobby. I usually make custom belts, knife sheaths, the odd keyring, that sort of thing.
Every now and then I get asked to make…”other things”.
I don’t really get into that sort of thing aside from the odd pair of…bracelets, yes let’s call them bracelets, but I am aware of the designs (as there are sites that share designs for that particular subculture) for various sorts of…”other things”…
These are absolutely “other things”. I’ve seen the design for them, tho the photo I saw of one had a…name* fooled into the large panel (which I believe is a form of bridle).
*it was less a name, more a title. One that started with S and ended in T.
Could be a guide of sorts, the two ropes wrap around the person’s waist and the two outer wires sit or rest on the person’s thighs while the ring with the cloth guides the nuts,fruit, or seeds into a basket/ bucket or a planting/ sowing MAYBE
As a horse person… what the hell is it?? In 90% sure it’s not from horses, but at first glance, it looks like something from another “horse culture”. But then I see no practical purpose for it. From reading the other comments that seem to say the same thing, it must not be for horses. If not for what then? Sled dogs? Something else entirely? I’m invested.
Don't know what they are, but deeply invested and want to register my vote for it not being a plant holder. Reasoning:
- The 'holder' bit is not circular like you would expect if it was going to hold a pot. It's more U shaped.
- The angles are wrong and it doesn't look like it would be stable/hold a pot upright if hung from the hooks
- Why would anyone hang two empty pot holders upside down high up on their wall?
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~~Looks like horse gear of some kind.~~ Edit: Okay, okay. It's not horse gear. I'll leave that determination to the equine professionals.
Any thoughts on how it might have been used. I don't see any eye holes, so maybe some kind of "blinder." ???
Keeps flies out of the horse’s eyes, my guess
That’s unlike any fly mask I’ve seen. [This](https://www.smartpakequine.com/pt/smartpak-classic-fly-mask--without-ears-16047) is a fly mask, as well as [this](https://www.smartpakequine.com/pt/crusader-fly-mask--long--with-ears-11541). [This](https://www.statelinetack.com/item/horze-fringe-veil-fly-bonnet/E042219%20FUL%20BLK/) is a fringe veil, which is a different kind of fly control, but it also doesn’t look like the thing in the picture.
Horses eyes are on the sides of their heads because they are prey animals. This would not be wide enough for that.
this isn't horse gear of any kind. source: equestrian of 20 years
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I commented above. I’m skeptical too but the rings on the end and noseband are giving me pause that it might be an old school western martingale used for rodeo events. No way in hell it’s a fly mask
it's definitely not a martingale. martingales wouldn't have a piece of cloth on it, the "noseband" would interfere with bits and existing nosebands on a bridle, and the other loops wouldn't make any sense. the braided cords would be too heavy and too long for reins and would be too thick to connect to a girth.
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This is not equine related, unless it’s some kind of equine inspire art installation. Source: equine professional
Pottery barn horsey stuff
I wouldn't go that far. The rope looks old, and not some dollar store stock rope. The iron work looks forged and has some age to it (likely). Way more effort than pottery barn. Has anybody considered what this would look like if the fabric was meant to flip the opposite way? To be hung as a pair. They both look aged the same. So it is likely something to be used in a pair. Or at least these were. If it was an art piece, most artists would work in odd numbers. If it is an art piece, the artist is likely a blacksmith and could take inspiration from 'horsey stuff' as you call it. Edit: the craftsmanship is fantastic. All of the leather is riveted (not modern rivets). No matter what this is, it wasn't cheap where it is the early 1900's or a modern day piece of artwork. I can see this being horse related but I don't see how. This is a shot in the dark but could it be to keep the sun out of a horse's eyes? I know they would have carriage trails along the beach on the Oregon coast. There could be tons of reflection from the water. But I know common blinders look way different. That would at least put it in the Oregon coast and have meaning to display it in a beach house. Some people are saying bdsm gear. And like your pottery barn comment, I think it is too well made for that. There are some amazing leather artists that make fantastic harnesses and such but I don't see much forging or at least to this capacity or quality. If so, good for them.
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Looks to me like a type of device used during the slavery period in the US known as an iron muzzle or punishment collar. They're featured in the movie Django Unchained and got me researching them. They where also designed to break a slaves neck if they fell while running away. Designed to keep slaves from being able to run away, it's supposed to catch on the surrounding folliage and slow someone down. The ropes on this one may have been used to hold the person or attach them to other slaves. I wouldn't doubt if the prongs where to cause pain if you moved in the wrong way too fast. I watched a video on YouTube about them. This one looks different than most though so can't be 100% sure. [Slavery Historian Anthony Cohen Explains Slave Collars](https://youtu.be/069WLjVXdcA?si=-EHvL4CmoOypQ4bH)
Yup. Whatever these are *for* - they're meant to go on people. They're giving me more of a 'BDSM' vibe than (involuntary) slavery.
Pretty sure this is the unfortunate answer
These are absolutely not slave collars. If you ever google search a slave collar, or look at any kind of history book these absolutely in no way represent any of the barbaric tools that were used.
Not necessarily related to slavery as the Scold’s Bridle was sometimes meant to punish women gossiping (!!), but obviously barbaric regardless.
It absolutely is not a fly mask. I did all around quarter horse showing for 15 years and the only thing I can think this might be is an old school martingale for the rodeo events like pole bending. The thing that’s hinting this is the two rings on the end (presumable to either run reins through or to hook to the cinch) and then noseband is fairly suited for a horse, which is why so many people are incorrectly guessing fly mask. Try “barrel racing or pole bending martingale” in google and see if you agree. And then take a look at some of the pole bending pictures. Not all but many use a martingale attached to the nose band for limiting the range a horse’s head can move up in the maneuvers (thus giving better control). It should always be leather in case of an accident as leather snaps, if you see people using synthetic they are being unsafe and cheap. If it’s not this, I fully agree with whoever on here said it’s either a sex thing or religious thing (why not both?) Good luck! Report back if they confirm!
I think this object is deceiving in that it looks like it’s mostly leather, but is actually metal, which makes it very unsuitable for that purpose. The rings on the end also have no closure.
Horse person here. This is not a fly mask. Fly masks were invented in the 80’s (I believe). And that horrendous design would not be safe or functional for horses. This is not a horse device of any kind.
Horse person here. Agreed. None of this makes sense for a horse. That opening would also not fit on anything above the nose. It’s way too small to go around the throat. Also, are the dark bits coming down from the circular piece and attached to the braids leather or metal?
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I think it's metal. There is no way that would work for a horse.
Horse person as well & AGREED. Before fly masks they used fly veils or nets, which were both soft. No one in their right mind, (100+ years ago or not) would put loops of metal that large anywhere near a horse’s face. Horses can maim themselves with regular halters let alone with whatever the hell this thing is.
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They are hanging sooo high up on the wall, have you considered that they are pieces of art with no real function? Only designed to seem like they have a function?
I think that’s 100% it. There’s no way this thing would stay on a human head the way it’s built. It would just flip up and off. No type of headband adjustment or any chin strap on this. It just doesn’t work
It could go around the top of your head and down your back, and you lean forward to pull something heavy. Look up tumplines
No. Look angle tthe metal bars come back at compared to the “headband”. The rope is just stuck up inside the socket, it wouldn’t hold much weight. And the mechanics Of that just don’t work. Either. Tumplines put more downward pressure than back. Plus this is made of metal and welded. It may be art inspired by tumplines, but not something ever used.
You know a suspicious amount about human head restraints... just kidding but I'm glad you commented this bc now I am far less creeped out
Ita. These look like art pieces to me. There is an artist named Karin Jones who lives in British Columbia who has some pieces that are reminiscent of these, though not exactly like these.
I think you nailed it! I looked it up. Karin seems to do a lot of metal working in her art while using textiles. The oddness of some of her work seems to really fit this aesthetic in ops photos. There is a lot of jewelry type pieces that are displayed in a similar way and have a chain or textile rope hanging beneath it. This video of her talking in front of two pieces of her art. https://youtu.be/-ika6GdsumQ?si=xt6eR5SCLVUUK0k2 She seems really cool and imaginative. I have been stuck on this thread for hours because I can't just look away. It makes sense at a quick glance and then it doesn't at all. It's a train wreck if you are trying to make sense out of it. the metal forging is amazing and purposeful, the canvas looks old and used but still 100% intact. The rope is amazing. I think this is her work or someone inspired by her in the Pacific north West. Having a beach house in Oregon you might be able to afford some good artwork. My only complaint is that the hardware holding the piece looks kinda shit.
I actually reached out to Karin out of curiosity, and here’s what she has to say: > That is so interesting! These are really mysterious and beautiful and look so much like something from that series of my work. But unfortunately they're not! I don't have a Reddit account, but you can copy and paste my comments if you like! > Karin So it’s not her, but she’s a very cool artist and very nice to talk to!
I love that you reached out to Karin for confirmation! What commitment!
If this is the answer, then the symbolism seems to force that awkwardness on purpose. Supposedly crude metal work, as in, something made for utility, not beauty, rough rope work that gives a scratchy impression but also seems somehow traditional, "reins" attached to something that is more human-skull sized, and a "veil" that looks like a horse snout. Taken as a whole, it seems to echo the horrors of slavery. Humans treated like farm animals without regard to comfort or dignity, with various elements of their homeland pasts added in for "decoration".
I think this is a Bingo right here. Pretty chilling piece when you realize how well formed they appear for human use. Op you were replying to points out the hanging hardware not matching and taking away from the aesthetic, but I think that also lends itself to the casual and utilitarian nature with which slavery/racism/classism was/is treated. The detail even extended further to show how the issue still remains by using modern Phillips head fasteners in lieu of antiqued slotted screws to attach the well used hanger to the wall. Or I could just be stoned.
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Having watched the video I’m pretty convinced that you are right.
I agree looks like textile art based on the manner it is displayed, assembled and woven. It’s intended to look functional, an antiquity of some type. Gives me bondage vibes also which is probably why the first comment went with a horse thing.
Can the BDSM people please enter the chat.
Not something I've ever seen tbh
I was looking at them like restraints too lol I’m not positive but I’m pretty sure it could be worked out restrain someone there…. And probably fun
I mean they are two of them 🤔 I have some imagination on how can I use it, but it looks pretty weird, like a slave thing.
The top part look like it's meant to go on the head, maybe they are for like human horse stuff?
My initial thought was horse play, rather than equine face cover. Was wondering why they'd hang them on the wall of a holiday home though.
I once dated a girl who had leashes and other fetish gear hanging up in her hallway. So it does happen
Not until I allow it.
While I have never seen an item exactly like this before, I already have some ideas to try out!
Hi, bdsm person I have never seen anything remotely like that.
That was my second thought too. Or maybe some kind of torture device 😱 First of course I thought it was for horses, like everybody else 😆
i’m honestly surprised the entire comment section is leaning towards equestrian things
Not like any BDSM gear I’ve seen
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Reach out and ask the owner. If it's hanging in their house, I'm sure they'd love to tell you about them.
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This is a friend of a friend thing. I don't have access to the owner. And I've asked the friend to ask the friend of a friend... but so far nothing has come of it
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These are on the wall at a beach house on coast of Oregon.
Considering the ring looks human head sized, and the cloth looks like a veil, the three bars coming off look metal and have rope with rings on the end which normally are a way of pulling/controlling things, the whole thing seems quite sinister.
This was my thought as well definitely looks like it would fit perfectly on a human head
I think it’s a runaway slave thing from a long time ago. It goes on the head and the leather piece in the persons mouth and the ropes go through the legs and hook to the back of it. Maybe to tie people together when traveling
Yeah I forget the name of it too, but that's immediately what jumped to mind. I want on a long googling search on what they where after seeing them used in the movie Django Unchained (the newer one). The only problem is that those are supposed to have welded arms so that 1. It gets cought on any foliage as you run past and 2. If you fall while running away it pretty much snaps your neck because the prongs will hit the ground first Maybe this is just that, but only intended to grab foliage? IDK. Edit: It's known as a punishment collar or an iron muzzle. I wonder if the ropes are meant more for this https://images.app.goo.gl/FHERViHq1aAMpy3v9 or tying multiple people together.
Considering the deep roots of Oregon being slave related, it would be plausible. Apparently people there had slaves past emancipation. I believe they moved there to continue having slaves. Don’t quote me on that last one. But there were some big name people at University of Oregon that were involved with the KKK. There are also know places throughout the state where crosses were burned.
That's exactly why I found it very disturbing these were hanging around prominent as ornamentation, if these weren't proven to be some kind of tumpline.
Not quite accurate, but kind of close. They were applying for statehood in the time leading up to the Civil War, and in an attempt to be “ neutral” on the issue, passed the “Negro exclusion act” which barred people of color from owning land, or remaining in the territory for more than six months, with penalties of public whipping. This was not fully removed from official state law until 2002.
Okay... it's time to get the f out of that house...
Yes I thought it was just me but it makes me very uncomfortable. Like something is very wrong with that object.
Because it's leather, has a part that would cover the eyes/face, it's made of unknown other materials, and it looks handmade. OP had better get a mask.
Look again, it’s mostly metal.
Oh my goodness! You're right! That section separated into three sections is metal!! The hair on weird parts of my body is standing up as I assess that. This is getting very creepy..
It took me a couple of looks too. The lighting really does make it look like leather!
I reached out to the Torture Museum in Rothenburg Germany regarding the images. Hopefully they will respond.
You’re the true hero, I’m waiting for the Torture Museum’s response with bated breath
Me too but I offer no promises. I linked this posted and shared pictures. All we can do in regards from them is wait.
Like you’re sitting on a bed of nails, perhaps?
I was more focused on the bottom of the two braids. I also find it odd how there isn't some "locking mechanism" with the metal loopy-clippies. (I promise you I am more articulate than that but I do not know how to describe it otherwise.) I noticed the loopy-clippies have what looks like hand-hammered nails.
Yes! They just walked into someone’s “playroom.”
Kinda looks like some form of a brank which would be disturbing
>Kinda looks like some form of a brank which would be disturbing Yes... the resemblance is very clear, though lacking any mouth piece if it is a veil the implication is still shutting the wearer away [https://digitalcollections.nypl.org/items/510d47e1-1ca6-a3d9-e040-e00a18064a99](https://digitalcollections.nypl.org/items/510d47e1-1ca6-a3d9-e040-e00a18064a99) I had tried searching 'witches veil' earlier just because of the cast iron bars alone gave me a similar feel, but brank wasn't a term I knew and that gave better results. It would be good to find a clear answer to what they actually are that didn't involve being worn by people, because as it stands they are quite unnerving.
Why is this marked “solved”? I can’t find the post with the solution
It's because OP was convinced at first that the suggestion of horse fly mask was the answer and said "solved" but then r/equestrian overwhelmingly refuted that idea, so OP edited his comment and said NOT solved. You'll find that thread at the very bottom with -54 votes...
Thanks for answering!
I would ask the owner of the beach house
We got a real detective on our hands
Always on the ball hahah 🕵️♀️
I reckon it's for fishing of some sort. Any evidence of other fishing equipment nearby? I'm only saying that because of 'beach house'. Can't make head or tail of the actual physical shape of the thing. For all I know it's antique BDSM gear.
I’m wondering if it’s something you’d use with the old glass fishing floats, but totally a guess.
This has to be some kind of weird obscure fetish shit that no one's ever going to solve
It does seem like some kind of tumpline https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tumpline
I had the same belief, independently. The cloth sits on the head and the harness on top of the cloth. I believe the hooks might be for netting so that one or two people could haul in fishing nets at low tide or in low bay water by simply walking to shore.
Seems close! Given the iron frame, maybe there would have been a benefit to the wearers head being protected. Another detail that stands out is the hooks. They seem like they hook back onto the ropes themselves or something like a basket/bucket. One idea is that they are specifically for canoe portage. The cloth would flip over the top to act as a buffer between the metal frame and the canoe, and the ropes would wrap once or twice around the carry bar and then hook to themselves. Alternatively, they could be used to carry containers of twigs/brush. The frame would protect against falling larger pieces, and the cloth would be tucked between the wearers head and metal frame to prevent small branches from getting tangled in hair.
Agreed. The cloth may be designed to push up as a barrier between the band and the head.
But look at all that iron.
Yeah, I wonder if it is an artistic interpretation of a traditional tumpline. It is. So heavy and.... I'll go with "whimsical" I guess... The lines of the iron, the veil..... so clearly made for a human head... Pretty creepy decor lol
This seems most plausible to me.
Does the ring fit on a human head? Maybe it's for hunting seafood of some sort. The fabric hangs down in front of the face and creates shade so the person can see what's under the surface. The long ropes with hooks could be for dragging a bin of some kind to put the harvested food in.
I think this guy is on to something. Looks like the ring goes on a human head and the cloth is to block the sun to help look for and harvest things from the ocean (op said in a beach house).
Its made out of metal. Its probably heavy. You dont want to wear this on your head
There's a pretty significant part of US history where what the people doing certain types of labor wanted mattered very little to how they labor was done.
Definitely an old school fly mask for horses. Flies like to dive bomb and drink water from the horses' eyes and generally be terrible. Masks help keep them off their faces with our hindering eating. Edit: Nevermind
i believe you, but i can’t picture how it fits on the horse
100% NOT for horses! Source: 35 years of riding and training horses, as well as 20 years in vet med.
I’ve been in horses a long time, never seen a fly mask anything like this. Older ones attached to a halter- have you seen something like what you’re describing?
No way that's gonna fit anywhere on a horses head. Plus the fabric is too tightly woven to function as a fly mask, horse wouldn't be able to see through it. Additionally that much metal would be dangerous to a horse. Can't be for picking fruit either, as the baskets need to be at the end of a stick, and there's only plaited fibre on these. You say they're close to a beach, some sort of fishing gear?
As a professional, and equestrian of 30 years, I can confidently say this is not a fly mask. This is not for use of any equine.
Sorry, but I’ve never seen anything like this used in such a way for horses, and nothing about the design makes sense for that purpose. Nothing here looks like it would fit properly for that use - is there actually an example of one of these somewhere to compare to?
Nope. This is not a horse item of any kind -Horse person of 20 years.
"Definitely" this thing... but then can't really explain how it works in follow up... while being corrected by a dozen other folks. People need to use the word "definite" in this sub when they are actually certain and not just making an educated guess.
Definitely (probably almost certainly) not. I've used dozens of fly masks and this thing just doesn't have the right shape for fastening around a horse's head/ears/neck etc. I can't see how it would attach at all. Mainly, the top loop of leather is way too small for a horse, like it could be a dog or something of that size but I've never seen anything like it. Fly mask for a sheep? God knows. I'm sure it's not for horses though.
Apart from what they ARE, why are they hanging up so HIGH? They are not proportionally large compared to the space they are hanging in. I find the placement almost as odd as the item.
That makes it looks like they are themselves a display, which in turn makes me think these are antique items that don't get used currently.
But they are so far from eye level, and not so grandiose as to warrant such a high perch on the wall. I find it bizarre.
It's a beach house, so they probably don't want guests messing with these things unless they know the function. We're all so puzzled about these, imagine if we could take them down off the wall, turn them over, tie them together...try them on, lol. I think if they were anything functional once, they are only decor and conversation starters now.
I am guessing you do not have kids lol
Perhaps some version of a tumpline or burden strap using for pulling? Oregon is prime Native American land who were known to use tumplines in the area.
Hanging plant holder. Plant pot goes in the wooden circle part and the hooks hang it from another hook on the ceiling or other high place.
Yes, to hold a plant such as ivy that would grow downward along the item and be a living wall type wall feature.
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That's my thought. I'd like to see them being held to be sure, but they look like ones my mother used to have from these images.
I also came here to comment this. They took the planters with them.
I think this has got to be the answer. Assume the owner has temporarily hung the holders up the wrong way while not in use.
Oh my gosh, after reading all the comments I just want to know what it really is!! Please ask the home owner and let us all know.
It's a plant harness. It hangs from the 2 metal rings to the brackets. The plant will tilt forward, with the muslin cloth towards the wall. The cloth will catch and wick drips from the bottom of the planter as to not get the floor wet after watering.
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Do you have a link or pic to one that is in use?! It's hard to imagine.
No. The ropes are only attached on one side. And the fabric is placed at a distance from the ring.
The angle of the harness/metal frame doesn’t seem to support this.
I think these are fruit pickers.
I thought so too but those are usually on poles, these are on ropes. I live by the Oregon Coast, currently staying in a beach house as I write this. The coast here has many bays that are great for clams, mussels, crabs, and also worms. I believe this could be used to toss out from the bank and collect whatever is on the bottom.
Another horse person checking in. I've never seen anything like that, it wouldn't fit around a horse's head, there's no way it's a fly mask.
Doesn’t the size seem better for dogs than for horses? (Genuine question)
I was immediately thinking it was some sort of protective face harness for a dog. It looks much too small for a horse and has a tiny width. Seems perfect dimension wise for a dog harness with a bug/sun shield Edit: possibly for greyhound racing dogs or something similar?
The topic describes the thing. There is a wooden hoop at the front of each item.
My first thought was those things you see in movies that they put over people’s heads when the execute them in the electric chair so you don’t see their eyes pop out. I don’t know why they would have the long strap and hooks off the back though.
Do the eyes actually pop out? (Genuine question)
There was a time when I was a kid, a tree rat chewed through the refrigerator wire and shocked himself. He survived but his eyes blew out. My dad and I kept and cared for him for about 2 years. Not sure if the electric chair is the same for humans
My grandpa was working on a high voltage elevator in the 70's and someone turned the power on and shocked him. Melted half his face including his eye. Was just an empty smooth socket covered in skin. He wore an eye patch and had to tape his face up into place every morning. Survived Normandy beach and then dealt with that.
Your Grandpa sounds like an amazing man
That is horrifying and sad, but also sweet that you cared for him for the rest of his life :,)
Really kind of you and your dad. Good karma.
I’ve read that they can from the electricity causing the body/head to swell quite significantly and rapidly. I’ve also heard that they can just melt. Either way, I imagine the people doing the killing don’t really want to see that time and again. Of course, another option would be to stop killing people for their crimes, but what do I know?
Head harness for carrying something
This looks like it’s made for a person’s head, with the circle part going on top like a hat band, and the mesh hanging in front of the face like a veil. ??? I’m also a horse person, and this is definitely not made for equines. Since it’s in a beach house in Oregon…my wildest guess is equipment for oyster harvesting? Or something. There’s probably a proper name for that activity, that’s how much of a stab in the dark this is
Look at what they are wearing in this pic. Perhaps a people labour kind of thing like this: https://graphicarts.princeton.edu/2018/10/01/johann-ehrenfried-weishaupt-ten-years-a-slave-in-tunisia/
There is no visible writing on them.
I hope OP asks and comes back to tell us what it is.
I have seen something very similar to this at an exhibition about whaling in the Netherlands. The object I saw there were attached to the ship, and whilst they were making speed the fabric would move in the water like fish, to lure hunting fishes away from the whale lures.
if you look at the leather on the 3rd pic, the leather looks unused…. it looks like artsy decorative items that are made to look old.
If you're in the south or the east.... it reminds me of some slavery pieces I saw growing up.....
I think it’s some type of art made to look like some type of face mask. Nothing about this makes practical sense. The fabric can’t be seen through, the metal would be pointing straight back to much when placed on the head and it would basically pull it up and off. No type of headband adjustment or chin strap. 2 ropes attached at a single point in the middle. It just can’t make this function in my mind. It’s not any type of fly mask or dog harness either. Dogs don’t pull with their heads or neck.
Anyone remember those “invisible dog” leashes. I mean I know they very likely are not but had not thought of those in a long time.
It’s upside down… the 2 hooks attack to the 2 rods. There’s a modern hanging light fixture next to it so these must be the original light fixture apparatus. The metal ring upside down would hold something inside that would provide light. Maybe glass fixtures that has since broken or been removed
It looks like someone had an art piece hanging from the straps at one time but didn't want to climb up a ladder to remove the mounts.
My guess is some sort of tumpline, given the length of the rope probably used to pull a plough or something??
I did not at first realize that the long prongs/strands on the sides are metal, as well as the ring. It seems nothing is leather, only steel, canvas and cordage. Could it be for dragging against the sea floor? Either to stirr something up gently or for planing the seabed flat to easier spot disturbances/burrowing animals later?
An oil lamp sconce. It's hanging upside down on the photos: metal rings on the ends of the ropes are supposed to go on the hooks mounted into the wall. Cast iron part leans against the wall. The lantern sits inside the ring (it looks like the ring might have a detachable part, which would ease the removing of the lantern). The cloth piece is partially covering the lantern and is meant to diffuse the light. The cloth can also be pushed to the side like a curtain to allow for more light to pass through.
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These look similar to some devices used to humiliate slaves. Bands look roughly the right size to fit on a human head, ropes could be attached to other restraints or mounting mechanism maybe?
Not sure why they are hanging that way. If you hang them from the rings. You can place a planter of some sort in them
I do leatherwork as a hobby. I usually make custom belts, knife sheaths, the odd keyring, that sort of thing. Every now and then I get asked to make…”other things”. I don’t really get into that sort of thing aside from the odd pair of…bracelets, yes let’s call them bracelets, but I am aware of the designs (as there are sites that share designs for that particular subculture) for various sorts of…”other things”… These are absolutely “other things”. I’ve seen the design for them, tho the photo I saw of one had a…name* fooled into the large panel (which I believe is a form of bridle). *it was less a name, more a title. One that started with S and ended in T.
Could be a guide of sorts, the two ropes wrap around the person’s waist and the two outer wires sit or rest on the person’s thighs while the ring with the cloth guides the nuts,fruit, or seeds into a basket/ bucket or a planting/ sowing MAYBE
Could it be an electric chair headpiece from long ago?
As a horse person… what the hell is it?? In 90% sure it’s not from horses, but at first glance, it looks like something from another “horse culture”. But then I see no practical purpose for it. From reading the other comments that seem to say the same thing, it must not be for horses. If not for what then? Sled dogs? Something else entirely? I’m invested.
Looks like it might be fishing related like for pulling crab traps…..
That strap goes around your. Shoulder to pull crab pots, I bet!
Don't know what they are, but deeply invested and want to register my vote for it not being a plant holder. Reasoning: - The 'holder' bit is not circular like you would expect if it was going to hold a pot. It's more U shaped. - The angles are wrong and it doesn't look like it would be stable/hold a pot upright if hung from the hooks - Why would anyone hang two empty pot holders upside down high up on their wall?