Description:

Europe, Celtic empire for the smaller, late Roman empire for the larger, 1st to 3rd century CE. Two prick spurs - the smaller made of iron, the larger one of copper alloy (traditionally called "bronze" but actually with zinc instead of tin) - both intended to be attached to the back of a boot heel. The first spur is of a minimalist design with a pair of button fasteners and a curved bar centered with a short spike or 'prick.' The larger spur features a parabolic bar with curved strap ends, lug fasteners, and a conical spike projecting from a narrow, horizontally striated stem. Spurs of these forms were worn by men and women alike and would have been utilized in a variety of manners including farming, equestrian travel, and commanding cavalry units on the field of battle. Size of largest: 6" L x 3.75" W (15.2 cm x 9.5 cm)

Provenance: ex-estate of Eldert Bontekoe, Pegasi Numismatics, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA, acquired before 2000

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#159851

  • Condition: Minor loss to edge of Roman example, both with nice deep green and brown patina.

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December 17, 2020 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000