Pair of bell stirrups. Europe (?) First half of the 20th century.

Generous pair of bell-type stirrups, with its transversal eye evidencing the wear and tear of its crossbar; Half-round arch -in one of them, restored- and openwork skirt with a design of leaves and flowers and from its sides, two animals that rise on their hind legs to rest on a central medallion with the figure of a mask. Both pieces are cast in a metal alloy (not silver) that shines with a persistent shine, with stamped initials -probable manufacturer's mark-, apparently, "GD D" and "GD", located in an unusual place: in the lower section of the curl that ends the arch. They have their depth or footprint, openwork, with a radial design. They also present, made of the same metal, the rods intended to decorate their footrests, with small and numerous dents and other traces of use. Measures. Stapes. Height: 19 cm. Opening: 8.7 cm. Weight (of both): 904 gr. White hair. Length: 14.5 cm. Weight (both): 169 gr.

With the development of the industrial production of the most diverse goods, the River Plate market acquired special interest for the European factories that produced a wide range of articles destined to satisfy this demand. Among the Creole uses, the stirrups captured the attention of local riders, due to their costs, functionality, good taste and durability. In this case, with a pair that surprises with its shine, perhaps the result of a particular alloy where nickel is an important component.