Stirrup
Unknown Artist
18th century
Medium
Iron, silver
Dimensions
H. 18 in. (45.7 cm); W. 11 1/4 in. (28.6 cm); D. 4 1/4 in. (10.8 cm); Wt. 6 lb. 11 oz. (3033.4 g)
Classification
Equestrian Equipment-Stirrups
Culture
Mexican
Department
Arms and Armor
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Rogers Fund, 1937
Accession Number
37.117
Art Historical Context
This magnificent 18th-century Mexicanrup, crafted from iron and silver, exemplifies the robust equestrian equipment essential to the colonial era's horseback culture. Measuring an imposing 18 inches high and weighing over 6 pounds, its substantial size and weight were designed for the powerful warhorses ridden by Spanish viceroys military cavalry, and elite charros in New Spain (modern-day Mexico). The iron core provided durability for rugged terrain and combat, while silver accents added a touch of opulence, signaling the rider's status in a society where horsemanship defined power and presti...