Pair of Stirrups

Unknown

15th–17th century · Iron, gold, silver, horn, copper alloy · Arms and Armor

The unusual, possibly unique, combination of horn and iron as well as the superior quality of the high-relief chiseling of the dragonheads, and the extensive use of gold and particularly silver damascening over their iron surfaces set these stirrups apart. The plainness of the tread plates, however, and the sturdy construction overall show that they were intended for rigorous use.

Artist

Unknown

Date

15th–17th century

Medium

Iron, gold, silver, horn, copper alloy

Culture

Tibetan or Mongolian

Department

Arms and Armor

Credit line

Purchase, The Sulzberger Foundation Inc. Gift and Arthur Ochs Sulzberger Bequest, 2014