Pair of Stirrups of Paolo Odescalchi (?–1585), Bishop of Penne and Atri

third quarter 16th century

Not on view

Each side of these stirrups is decorated with grotesque designs showing vegetal scrolls, putti and masks. On the front plate adorning each suspension eye, two nude figures flank the arms of the Odescalchi family, topped with an ecclesiastical hat and with a pelican feeding its chicks underneath.

According to their dating range, these stirrups would have belonged to Paolo Odescalchi (?–1585), who was first appointed apostolic nuncio to Switzerland in 1553, and then apostolic nuncio and collector of Pope Pius IV in the Viceroyalty of Naples in 1560 and 1568. He then became bishop of Penne and Atri between 1568 and 1572.

The front plaque was a pre-made model for ecclesiastic dignitaries, the arms of the owner being then added on demand. The hat is purposely represented without its side pompons, the number of which traditionally indicating the ecclesiastical rank, allowing the design to be used for different hierarchies.

Artwork Details

Title: Pair of Stirrups of Paolo Odescalchi (?–1585), Bishop of Penne and Atri
Date: third quarter 16th century
Culture: Italian
Medium: Copper alloy, gold, tin
Dimensions: Stirrup (a); H. 7 3/8 in. (18.7 cm); W. 6 3/8 in. (16.2 cm); D. 4 1/2 in. (11.4 cm); Wt. 3 lb. 1.1 oz. (1392 g); stirrup (b); H. 7 3/8 in. (18.7 cm); W. 6 3/8 in. (16.2 cm); D. 4 1/2 in. (11.4 cm); Wt. 3 lb. 2.7 oz. (1437.3 g)
Classification: Equestrian Equipment-Stirrups
Credit Line: Gift of William H. Riggs, 1913
Object Number: 14.25.1760a, b
Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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