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Branks, also know as Dame�s Bridle, Scolds Bridle or Witches Bridle, were first used in Scotland. The device had many different appearances but was essentially a large metal mask that covered the victims head and retained a built in gag. The contraptions mouthpiece was set inside the victims� mouth to disable them from speaking. Attached to the piece were spikes, which pierced the wearers tongue. It was used on scolding housewives or to silence someone accused of being a witch. Some Branks also had a built in bell to further humiliate the person who wore it. |
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