1986.008.0598
Shackle Bolt and Loops
Physical Object
1986.008.0598a
Nuestra Señora de Atocha (1622)
circa 1620
The shackles are of a particular type in which two U-shaped pieces with looped ends were fitted over a straight rod of iron. The rod had a flared end and a pierced slot in the opposite to receive a wedge-shaped forelock pin. The two U-shaped loops held a person’s ankles, and the locked rod bound them together. Shackles could be used to restrain someone who had become violent, but they were also as punishment for common and petty offenses. Crimes deemed punishable by shackling were numerous, and included insubordination, blasphemy, fighting, petty theft, and the hurling of insults. See also 1986.008.0598b, c.