Latin America, South America, Chile, Spanish Colonial period, ca. 19th to early 20th century CE. A handsome pair of spurs or espuelas from a Chilean cowboy known as a huaso. Each spur displays a sizable iron rowel, an elaborate nickel silver shank, an iron and nickel silver heel band, and a white leather strap with an iron buckle. The shanks boast intricate openwork designs of abstract motifs, while geometric patterns of black niello adorns their peripheries as well as each heel band. The spiked terminals of the heel bands are laced with the leather strap. Generally found in Chile's central valley, huasos are an important part of Chilean folkloric culture and play a vital role in parades, fiestas, holidays, and popular music. A beautiful, high-pitched ringing sound is released from the rowels when they are spun, remarkably reminiscent of a delicate windchime. Size: 9.3" L x 3.8" W x 5" H (23.6 cm x 9.7 cm x 12.7 cm); of rowel: 5" Diameter (12.7 cm)

Provenance: private Denver, Colorado, USA collection, acquired in the 1960's

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#174270

Light surface wear commensurate with age. Otherwise, intact and excellent with nice remains of niello and rich patina throughout.