Rowel Spur (Left)
By the late 17th and in the 18th century, average Western European spurs became simpler, thinner, and featured smaller rowels, contrasting with some of the extravagant shapes and decorations found in the previous period. Even when carefully manufactured and slightly adorned, like here, they were usually discreet equestrian accessories. New horse riding trends also recommended smaller rowels as being better for the horse and giving more precision to the rider’s actions.
Artwork Details
- Title: Rowel Spur (Left)
- Date: 18th century
- Culture: German
- Medium: Iron
- Dimensions: L. 5 1/4 in. (13.3 cm); W. 4 1/8 in. (10.5 cm); Diam. of rowel 3/4 in. (1.9 cm); Wt. 2.6 oz. (73.7 g)
- Classification: Equestrian Equipment-Spurs
- Credit Line: Gift of Stephen V. Grancsay, 1942
- Object Number: 42.50.311
- Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor
More Artwork
A slider containing 5 items.
Press the down key to skip to the last item.
Press the down key to skip to the last item.
Kolman Helmschmid
ca. 1525
German
ca. 1450
German
15th century
German
ca. 1450–1500
German, Augsburg
ca. 1560–70
Research Resources
The Met provides unparalleled resources for research and welcomes an international community of students and scholars. The Met's Open Access API is where creators and researchers can connect to the The Met collection. Open Access data and public domain images are available for unrestricted commercial and noncommercial use without permission or fee.
To request images under copyright and other restrictions, please use this Image Request form.
Feedback
We continue to research and examine historical and cultural context for objects in The Met collection. If you have comments or questions about this object record, please complete and submit this form. The Museum looks forward to receiving your comments.