The Scold's Bride

By Crusader1307

Used primarily on women, “The Scold's Bride” was an iron or steel mask or muzzle. It enclosed the face of the wearer, with a 1 to 2 inch metal bit installed into the mouth (sometimes spiked). If the offender tried to take, she would suffer lacerations and punctures to the mouth. Fastened with bolts, the mask was tightened with extreme pressure. Some Scold Bride's were very elaborate. The term “Scold” was given to women who nagged or did not obey their husbands. Gossiping was also considered cause for The Scold. Soon witchcraft, heresy and other punishments were assigned to the device. They were also used later in Women Workhouses as a form of control. The Bride was popular in the 14th/15th Centuries.