Pair of Stirrups
This pair of stirrups is decorated with gilded bronze and silver overlay, and was originally probably deposited in the tomb of a wealthy Viking warrior. Although they are perhaps best known today for being gifted sailors, the Vikings also rode horses. As in all Germanic cultures, in fact, horses had great importance in their society and religion. Equestrian equipment like stirrups, spurs and bits are regularly found in Viking burials, next to weapons and other goods that the warriors wanted to bring with them to the afterlife, or alongside sacrificed horses that sometimes accompanied the wealthiest of these men.
Artwork Details
- Title: Pair of Stirrups
- Date: late 10th–early 11th century
- Culture: Scandinavian, possibly Danish
- Medium: Iron, bronze, gold, silver
- Dimensions: Stirrup (a); H. 8 in. (20.3 cm); W. 5 1/8 in. (13 cm); D. 2 3/4 in. (7 cm); Wt. 1 lb. 2.2 oz. (516 g); stirrup (b); H. 8 1/4 in. (21 cm); W. 5 1/8 in. (13 cm); D. 2 3/4 in. (7 cm); Wt. 1 lb. 3.1 oz. (541.5 g)
- Classification: Equestrian Equipment-Stirrups
- Credit Line: Purchase, The Ruddock Foundation for the Arts Gift, 2017
- Object Number: 2017.241a, b
- Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor
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European, probably Scandinavia
10th century
On loan to The Met
Scandinavian
ca. 950–1000
On loan to The Met
Germanic or Scandinavian
ca. 850–900
On loan to The Met
Scandinavian
ca. 950–1000
On loan to The Met
Scandinavian
ca. 950–1000
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