Folding Prick Spur
Cultureperhaps
French
Datelate 1700s
Mediumsteel
Dimensions9.5 × 12 cm (3 3/4 × 4 3/4 in.), 2 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.985.1
DescriptionRusseted steel. For left foot & of unusual form. Thin, "U"-shaped heel plate with large, slightly domed studs for strap (lost) & "D"-shaped tongued, hinged buckle on outside of foot. Riveted squared neck extends down at right angle. Fitted with bifurcated device pivoting with a spring and a rotating locking piece. The ends of the fork have perpendicular pyramidal & acutely pointed projections opposite each other. Pivoted latch on neck is designed to lock in two positions - with the pyramids pointing backwards, to be used as pricks; and with them underneath the heel pointing downward to serve as cleats, with the sharp spikes pressed into boot heel.ProvenancePurchased by John W. Higgins on November 24, 1928 from American Art Association (NY), lot no. 154 (Dean armor sale). Given to the Museum on July 1, 1954. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
On View
Not on view
1700s
