There were two horn-like protusions either side of the rear of the saddle, one for each buttock, to stop the rider sliding off backwards. In the front, two horns came up and curved over the front of the rider's thighs, to allow him to brace himself in the saddle. The riders using these saddles reported that they gave as much stability and control as using stirrups. This was demonstrated by them spearing things at a gallop and not falling off. I think they showed them using lances underarm, like "modern" lancers.
Neil.
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Neil Smith email: neil.smith_at_rmcs.cranfield.ac.uk CISMG, Cranfield University, phone: +44 1793 785900 RMCS, Shrivenham, Swindon, SN6 8LA, UK fax: +44 1793 782753 ------------------------------
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