Pair of Rowel Spurs
This type of spur, featuring a thick and rounded heel band, was very popular among Mexican charros (Mexican cowboys), in the late 19th century and the first decades of the 20th century. The silver-inlaid striped decoration is typical of the Chihuahua style, where they may have been made. They retain their original leather straps, embroidered with silver thread.
Charros were originally land, horse, and cattle owners who had a high social and economic status. They would meet during ceremonies and festivals and demonstrate their skills through several varieties of rodeo games called charrería. Charros and charrería remain important parts of Mexican traditional culture. During these festive events, charros could display splendidly decorated horse tack and spurs, the latter being one of the primary symbols of their culture.
Charros were originally land, horse, and cattle owners who had a high social and economic status. They would meet during ceremonies and festivals and demonstrate their skills through several varieties of rodeo games called charrería. Charros and charrería remain important parts of Mexican traditional culture. During these festive events, charros could display splendidly decorated horse tack and spurs, the latter being one of the primary symbols of their culture.
Artwork Details
- Title: Pair of Rowel Spurs
- Date: ca. 1890–1920
- Geography: possibly Chihuahua
- Culture: Mexican, possibly Chihuahua
- Medium: Iron alloy, silver, leather
- Dimensions: 42.50.357; L. 6 1/2 in. (16.5 cm); W. 3 1/2 in. (8.9 cm); Diam. of rowel 3 1/4 in. (8.3 cm); Wt. 1 lb. 11.7 oz. (785.3 g); 42.50.358; L. 6 5/8 in. (16.8 cm); W. 3 9/16 in. (9 cm); Diam. of rowel 3 3/8 in. (8.6 cm); Wt. 1 lb. 13.4 oz. (833.5 g)
- Classification: Equestrian Equipment-Spurs
- Credit Line: Gift of Stephen V. Grancsay, 1942
- Object Number: 42.50.357–358
- Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor
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