Rowel Spur

second half 18th–early 19th century

Not on view

This spur, inlaid with silver, was made for a Mexican charro (a Mexican cowboy). Its neck is shaped as a serpent or an eel, the tail of which is holding an elaborately pierced rowel. The top edge of the heel band is adorned with silver-inlaid serpents, and is pierced on the sides with a frieze of volutes.

Charros were originally land, horse, and cattle owners who had a high social and economic status. They would meet during ceremonies and festivals and demonstrate their skills through several varieties of rodeo games called charrería. Charros and charrería remain important parts of Mexican traditional culture. During these festive events, charros could display splendidly decorated horse tack and spurs, the latter being one of the primary symbols of their culture.

Artwork Details

Object Information

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

References

Title: Rowel Spur
Date: second half 18th–early 19th century
Culture: Mexican
Medium: Iron, silver
Dimensions: L. 6 in. (15.2 cm); W. 3 3/8 in. (8.6 cm); Diam. of rowel 2 5/8 in. (6.7 cm); Wt. 8.2 oz. (232.5 g)
Classification: Equestrian Equipment-Spurs
Credit Line: Gift of Stephen V. Grancsay, 1942
Object Number: 42.50.346
Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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