Prick Spur

18th–19th century
Not on view
The prick spurs traditionally used in most of the Islamic world evolved directly from late Antique examples. They consist of straight U-shaped branches bearing a very long prick with a disc at its base. Here the original strap, partially preserved but reattached the wrong way, is adorned with gilded iron plaques.


Traditionally, Moroccan riders take great pride in their horses and still frequently adorn them with shiny and colorful tack for parades and festivals. Wealthy riders would increase their prestige by covering their mount with luxurious material and equipping themselves with as luxurious matching accessories.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Prick Spur
  • Date: 18th–19th century
  • Culture: Moroccan
  • Medium: Iron alloy, gold, leather, iron
  • Dimensions: L. 9 7/8 in. (25.1 cm); W. 3 1/2 in. (8.9 cm); Wt. 14.1 oz. (399.7 g)
  • Classification: Equestrian Equipment-Spurs
  • Credit Line: Gift of William H. Riggs, 1913
  • Object Number: 14.25.1694
  • Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

More Artwork

Research Resources

The Met provides unparalleled resources for research and welcomes an international community of students and scholars. The Met's Open Access API is where creators and researchers can connect to the The Met collection. Open Access data and public domain images are available for unrestricted commercial and noncommercial use without permission or fee.

To request images under copyright and other restrictions, please use this Image Request form.

Feedback

We continue to research and examine historical and cultural context for objects in The Met collection. If you have comments or questions about this object record, please complete and submit this form. The Museum looks forward to receiving your comments.