Prick Spur
The prick spur was the first type of spur to be invented, and it consists of a goad or prick, more or less pointed, connected to side arms or a heel plate. The earliest spurs were probably simple thorns attached at the back of the heel, before they started to be made out of metal in antiquity.
Prick spurs were the main type of spurs used in the Middle Ages until the mid-14th century, when they were supplanted by rowel spurs, which appeared in Europe a century before and with which they had cohabitated for a time. As a knight’s status was closely related to his horse, spurs became one of the symbols of chivalry, and one of the tokens given to him during his knighting.
Prick spurs were the main type of spurs used in the Middle Ages until the mid-14th century, when they were supplanted by rowel spurs, which appeared in Europe a century before and with which they had cohabitated for a time. As a knight’s status was closely related to his horse, spurs became one of the symbols of chivalry, and one of the tokens given to him during his knighting.
Artwork Details
- Title: Prick Spur
- Date: 11th–12th century
- Culture: possibly British
- Medium: Copper alloy
- Dimensions: L. 5 7/8 in. (14.9 cm); W. 3 1/4 in. (8.3 cm); Wt. 3.1 oz. (87.9 g)
- Classification: Equestrian Equipment-Spurs
- Credit Line: Gift of Thomas E. Kirby, 1921
- Object Number: 21.183.5
- Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor
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