"Rowel" Spur
Culture
Mexican
Dateabout 1700-1750
Mediumsteel
Dimensions14 × 25 cm (5 1/2 × 9 13/16 in.), 10 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.990
DescriptionSteel & for left foot. "U"-shaped heel plate, with "D" section inner branch & that on outside of is decorative openwork. Drawn into notched points above & below neck. Pierced terminals of heel plate with decorative strap clips & studs; that of left with with modern rivet. Three of 4 mounts damaged. Neck formed as long, flat downcurving rowel box. This is drawn out as 4 pair of large volutes whose inner terminals are finished as wild cats. Base of neck fitted with grotesque leopard figure. Large rowel with 7 acutely pointed spikes.Label TextDuring the Renaissance, spurs became elaborate fashion statements, reflecting trends in contemporary aesthetics. This later example from Mexico is a tour-de-force of metalworking.ProvenancePurchased by Museum from Sumner Healey (NYC) on February 1, 1933, his #4. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
On View
Not on view
1800s
