Stirrup

Unknown

10th–12th century · Iron · Arms and Armor

The large proportions of this Germanic stirrup are unusual, but its shape is typical of central European regions. Horses had great importance in Germanic societies, in both their social and religious aspects. Equestrian equipment, like stirrups, spurs and bits, are regularly found in their burials, even after their Christianization, 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.

Artist

Unknown

Date

10th–12th century

Medium

Iron

Culture

Germanic

Department

Arms and Armor

Credit line

Gift of Stephen V. Grancsay, 1942