(War Stirrup, one of a pair), 17th century, Unknown Japanese, 10 1/8 x 10 1/4 in. (25.72 x 26.04 cm) (each), Iron alloy with silver inlay, Japan, 17th century, During the Edo period (1600-1868), only warriors of middle or high rank were permitted to own horses. Feudal lords and the shogun's guards used riding equipment ornamented in a manner appropriate to their social position. This pair of stirrups is sumptuously decorated with designs of blossoming wisteria. According to the inlaid inscription on each of the buckle-brackets, the stirrups were made by the metalsmith Kuniyuki, who worked in the town of Kanagawa in Kashu province (modern-day Ishikawa prefecture).