Pair of Japanese Bronze Samurai Abumi Stirrups

Inlaid with brass and silver, this extraordinary pair of Japanese bronze stirrups, known as Abumi, were crafted in the Edo period (1603-1868) for use on a Samurai's horse. Each is wonderfully detailed with inlaid silver scrollwork and adorned with fearsome dragons covered with scales and grasping flaming pearls, a motif symbolizing the pursuit of power and strength. The interiors are of black lacquer with expected wear consistent with age and use.