Stirrup
The flaring sides of this stirrup, found in Northern Poland, are decorated with bands inlaid in silver bearing geometrical designs along the edges, and are pierced with a series of triangular openings.
Horses had a great societal importance in Germanic and Slavic cultures, in both social and religious aspects. Equestrian equipment, like stirrups, spurs and bits, are regularly found in their burials, among the goods warriors wanted to bring with them to the afterlife. The elite would sometimes even be accompanied by sacrificed horses, a meaningful practice at that time, considering the high economic value of horses.
Horses had a great societal importance in Germanic and Slavic cultures, in both social and religious aspects. Equestrian equipment, like stirrups, spurs and bits, are regularly found in their burials, among the goods warriors wanted to bring with them to the afterlife. The elite would sometimes even be accompanied by sacrificed horses, a meaningful practice at that time, considering the high economic value of horses.
Artwork Details
- Title: Stirrup
- Date: 8th–9th century
- Geography: East Prussia
- Culture: Germanic or Slavic
- Medium: Iron, silver
- Dimensions: H. 6 1/4 in. (15.9 cm); W. 4 1/2 in. (11.4 cm); D. 3 1/4 in. (8.3 cm); Wt. 9.6 oz. (272.2 g)
- Classification: Equestrian Equipment-Stirrups
- Credit Line: Gift of Stephen V. Grancsay, 1942
- Object Number: 42.50.419
- Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor
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