"Rowel" Spur
Culture
German
Datelate 1400s
Mediumsteel
Dimensions9.2 × 25.1 cm (3 5/8 × 9 7/8 in.), 10 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.999
DescriptionSteel. U-shaped heel plate of flattened triangular section, slightly concave within, with short, slightly tapering branches having squared terminals accented by low rib. Anterior top corners of these are pierced for lost mounts. On basal edge, to rear of terminal is pendant rearwardly angled lobe with oblong slot. Long neck extends upward at steep angle, & tapers slightly to bluntly rounded terminals. Neck is of lozenge section, with short rowel-box. There is fairly large rowel of 8, long, triangular points, rotating on axle with bluntly conical bosses.Label TextMedieval knights specialized in high-impact combat, charging their opponents with their lance tucked under their arm. This called for the rider to sit in a braced position, wedging his back against the saddle, and thrusting his legs forward. This put his heels at some distance from the horse’s flank, which explains the long shank on this spur.ProvenancePurchased by John W. Higgins on September 28, 1929 from estate of Dr. Bashford Dean (Riverdale, NY), his #4. Given to the Museum on July 1, 1954. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
On View
Not on view
1700s
1800s
1800s
