Nailless Horseshoe

19th century
Not on view
This large horseshoe, probably intended for a draught horse, consists of four articulated parts, closed by a heavy screw and bolt at the back. The small holes on the edges probably fixed a padded lining.

This kind of nailless shoe was used on a hoof with a horn wall too damaged to nail a regular shoe. It would have been used until the hoof grew back again.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Nailless Horseshoe
  • Date: 19th century
  • Culture: European
  • Medium: Iron
  • Dimensions: L. 7 3/8 in. (18.7 cm); W. 5 1/4 in. (13.3 cm); D. 2 3/4 in. (7 cm); Wt. 1 lb. 15.7 oz. (898 g)
  • Classification: Equestrian Equipment
  • Credit Line: Gift of William H. Riggs, 1913
  • Object Number: 14.25.1668
  • Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor
More Artwork

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 contact us using the form below. The Museum looks forward to receiving your comments.

Send feedback