Prick Spur
This exceptional spur has features in common with Germanic and Gallo-Roman examples from around the 3rd century. However its size and width make it very unusual, as spurs from this period are normally very small. The spur was secured to the foot by the means of straps attached to the side buttons and to the small hook shaped as a small stylized horse’s head.
The state of preservation and the partially removed black patina indicate that it may have been found in a humid context with a low level of oxygen, like a bog, preserving the metal from rust. In this case this spur would have probably been thrown there as an offering. Germanic populations regularly offered sacrifices of military and equestrian objects (including war booties) to their gods in this way after a successful battle.
The state of preservation and the partially removed black patina indicate that it may have been found in a humid context with a low level of oxygen, like a bog, preserving the metal from rust. In this case this spur would have probably been thrown there as an offering. Germanic populations regularly offered sacrifices of military and equestrian objects (including war booties) to their gods in this way after a successful battle.
Artwork Details
- Title: Prick Spur
- Date: 2nd–3rd century
- Culture: Germanic
- Medium: Iron alloy
- Dimensions: L. 5 1/4 in. (13.3 cm); W. 4 in. (10.1 cm); Wt. 3.3 oz. (93.6 g)
- Classification: Equestrian Equipment-Spurs
- Credit Line: Gift of Stephen V. Grancsay, 1942
- Object Number: 42.50.252
- Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor
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