Curious German Iron forged Mask of Shame or Scold's Bridle Schandmaske Torturewith bell. A "scold's bridle" in wrought iron, used as a form of public humiliation and torture for those accused of infidelity and prostitution, but also to punish mostly female quarrelers and gossipers. This iron mask was fixed on the victim's head, while the mouthpiece entered the mouth and prevented the person from speaking, but also from eating and drinking. The victim was obliged to wear this mask for several hours or even longer and was often led through the streets to be humiliated. The pig ears on either side of the mask, contributed to this. These masks 17th - 19th century come originaly from Germany and they are rare today and each one is unique. The most are in private collections or torture museums. Height ca. 48 cm (18,89 inches) and width from ear to ear 30 cm (11,81 inches) life size.
