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This type of bow, a sheep bow, is also known as a 'blue bow' or 'strod' was used for keeping sheep or lambs still whilst being tidied for market, such as when having the ends of their wool clipped to remove discolouration. This bow has been made from the branch of a tree. It would be hammered into the ground and then the sheep's head is placed in the fork and held in place by the metal rod, which could be adjusted to the size of the animal.

1 bow: wood; metal; good condition

MERL 'Catalogue index' card – 'A sheep or lamb’s neck was placed in the fork of a sheep bow to keep the animal still while it was being tidied for market, i.e. its wool might be clipped at the ends to remove discolouration. The bow was hammered firmly into the ground, and then the metal rod was adjusted to the size of the animal. // Bows were also known as BLUE BOWS or STRODS. Nothing is known of the origin of this bow. It has been made from the branch of a tree and measures 4 ft. .25 inches in height and is 9 inches round the stem just below the fork. The fork is 9 inches wide at the top. There are 4 holes in each part of the fork so that the rod can be adjusted over the sheep’s neck at different heights. The iron rod is attached to the bow by a chain and staple, and the tops of the fork are reinforced with metal bands.', Lavinia Smith No. 21., Lavinia Smith Catalogue (D60/28) - 'A list of the contents of the East Hendred museum. July 5 1940 // Shepherd's Andrews's "ship tackle". // 21. One sheep-rack with an adjustable rod. An article in Country Life in 1939 said that these racks were used to hold lambs being prepared for show when the tips of their wool were clipped to remove discoloration [sic].' (Note that the word 'remove' is written in pencil)

Wood, Metal

Rippon, Miss Dorothy May Lyddon (Agent)