Lady's Stirrup

Unknown

late 18th–early 19th century · Iron · Arms and Armor

Ladies’ side saddles of the 18th and early 19th century were made with only one stirrup on the left side of the horse, and were shaped at this time as slippers that would give more stability and elegance to the rider. A leather slipper was originally attached to the iron sole of this stirrup. The pierced decoration, however, showing a fleur-de-lis and two letter Ds, has been added later, to falsely suggest it belonged to Diane de Poitiers (1499-1566), the mistress of the French king Henri II.

Artist

Unknown

Date

late 18th–early 19th century

Medium

Iron

Culture

French

Department

Arms and Armor

Credit line

Gift of William H. Riggs, 1913