This military stirrup (military because of its weight and the shell device, which helped protect the stirrup from being cut away by a sword blow) is the type found all over Europe at this period, but I'll give it the benefit of the doubt and call it British because it was found in England (in a barn).
It was the type that would have been used in all the Marlborough Wars in the early 18th century. As a casting, it is a very competent piece of work. By 1720 or so, iron stirrups were beginning to replace this pattern for use in the field. By virtue of its silver finish (of which there are extensive remains), this may have been something for parade occasions. In its day it must have looked truly splendid with all the silver finish intact.
There is a maker's mark 'GM' struck in seriph capitals at the top of the stirrup behind the shell device.
If you want to comment on this item—re quality, age, etc—please email me.
[Horse Furniture : Stirrups : British : 18th Century]
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