The word on the street is that an early 5th-century bit (the type a horse bites) has been found in Osaka, right about where it is commonly believed that the ancient horse-handling Kawauchi family were based. Makes sense.

Apparently, there is a lake in that area that used to be connected to the sea, and the bit, along with the horse that was biting it, was probably brought to Japan from Baekje. Supporting this theory was a well frame found at the same site, made from repurposed boat wood.

I seem to recall that there is a theory that Japan was invaded in the 5th century by horse-riding continental types -- and here's a link with a bit more information, including an Osaka connection (!) -- so this could be the deerbone tip of very big news, archaeologically speaking. Anyone know any more about this?

The best part of all? It's a rather small bit... which means it probably belonged to a foal. Awwwww.