ABSTRACT
The domestication of the horse and its equine relatives must rank as one of the major developments of ancient human culture. The uses to which the animal was put affected diverse human activities, including communications, transportation, warfare and agriculture. The influence of the animal on society is instantly apparent in such words as Latin equites and the doublet "cavalry/ chivalry." Riding astride appears to have been a relatively late development. One of the most fruitful discoveries from the standpoint of ancient horsemanship was the unearthing in 1969 of a tomb near Wu-wei, Kansu. In addition to the famous "flying horse," numerous other bronze figures of horses were found, arranged in a procession. The Scythian-type saddle was a fairly complex affair, with hair stuffing, quilting, and rather prominent rolls or "arches" at the front and rear. The straps or saddle-strings would make possible the securing of necessary gear, weapons or provisions.
