Prick Spur
The state of preservation and the partially removed black patina indicate that it may have been found in a humid context with a low level of oxygen, like a bog, preserving the metal from rust. In this case this spur would have probably been thrown there as an offering. Germanic populations regularly offered sacrifices of military and equestrian objects (including war booties) to their gods in this way after a successful battle.
Artwork Details
- Title: Prick Spur
- Date: 2nd–3rd century
- Culture: Germanic
- Medium: Iron alloy
- Dimensions: L. 5 1/4 in. (13.3 cm); W. 4 in. (10.1 cm); Wt. 3.3 oz. (93.6 g)
- Classification: Equestrian Equipment-Spurs
- Credit Line: Gift of Stephen V. Grancsay, 1942
- Object Number: 42.50.252
- Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor
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