Pair of Stirrups

dated 1694
Not on view
When hanged together, these stirrups display on one side of their footplate rims, in Latin, the name of their original owner, Jacob Helt, as well as their manufacture year 1694. Heraldic griffins, a common decorative motif on German equestrian material since the 16th century, adorn the top of the footplates.

Its pierced decoration is typical of the production of southeast Germany and Saxony in the 16th and 17th centuries. Two holes drilled on each side of the branches indicate that they were originally very likely enriched with pierced decorated plaques, probably made of another metal, screwed over the rather rough vegetal scrolls, creating a double-layer effect.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Pair of Stirrups
  • Date: dated 1694
  • Culture: German, possibly Saxony
  • Medium: Iron alloy
  • Dimensions: 42.50.458; H. 8 in. (20.3 cm); W. 5 1/4 in. (13.3 cm); D. 4 in. (10.2 cm); Wt. 1 lb. 8 oz. (680.4 g); 42.50.459; H. 8 in. (20.3 cm); W. 5 1/8 in. (13 cm); D. 4 1/4 in. (10.8 cm); Wt. 1 lb. 7.9 oz. (677.6 g)
  • Classification: Equestrian Equipment-Stirrups
  • Credit Line: Gift of Stephen V. Grancsay, 1942
  • Object Number: 42.50.458–459
  • Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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