Pair of Stirrups

17th century

Not on view

This decoration technique of smooth chiseled steel, polished to the point of mimicking silver, seems to have been popular in Northern Italy for the decoration of equestrian material in the second half of the 17th century.

The swivel suspension eye allowed the stirrup leather to stay flat against the horse’s flank when the stirrup is used, but it is more fragile than regular non-rotating systems.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Title: Pair of Stirrups
Date: 17th century
Culture: Italian
Medium: Iron alloy
Dimensions: Stirrup (a); H. 7 1/8 in. (18.1 cm); W. 5 1/4 in. (13.3 cm); D. 3 1/2 in. (8.9 cm); Wt. 1 lb. 0.9 oz. (479.1 g); stirrup (b); H. 7 in. (17.8 cm); W. 5 1/4 in. (13.3 cm); D. 3 1/4 in. (8.3 cm); Wt. 1 lb. 0.4 oz. (464.9 g)
Classification: Equestrian Equipment-Stirrups
Credit Line: Gift of William H. Riggs, 1913
Object Number: 14.25.1746a, b
Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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