Going back

Today I went back to the Don McCullin exhibition at Bruton for a second look, this time with my husband. We arrived soon after it opened, and the fact there were fewer people there meant that we could take more time and look at the images in more detail. There were a number that showed "the decisive moment", such as one taken during the Troubles - soldiers with guns drawn, running through the streets, and the shocked face of a woman who had opened her door at the wrong moment. 

We were also able to really look at the buildings, both inside and out. We were intrigued by this weather vane. I'm sure I've read somewhere that being made to ride a horse facing backwards was a form of penance, but I've been unable to find anything to confirm it. Can anyone shed any light please?