A rare cased set of antique early 19th century cock fighting spurs
Code: 10395
Dimensions:
A rare cased set of antique early 19th century cock fighting spurs.
The period mahogany box has six internal compartments and contains two pairs of spurs, also known as gaffs.
The early Victorian steel spurs are all struck with the maker's mark initials I.W. Each spur is hand sewn onto a brown leather leg binding wrap.
One pair with approximately 2 1/2" or 6.3cm curved spurs. The other pair with approximately 2 1/4" or 5.8cm curved spurs.
It is certainly uncommon to find 19th century spurs in their original fitted case. A must for any collector.
Within the case is also a curved needle which would have been used when binding the spurs onto the bird's legs. It is a nice addition having this present still within the case.
These fierce looking items would have been bound to the cock's leg, with the bird's own leg spur passing through the ring opening.
Cock fighting was the ancient sport and gambling opportunity, which became a popular pastime in England during the 16th century.
King Henry VIII had a cock fight pit built at Whitehall Palace during his reign, which illustrates the popularity of this once underground activity.
Undoubtedly gruesome, nevertheless these make for a fascinating relic from our social history.
These have become highly collectible, with original cases sets like this a rare desirable find.
The spurs have survived well with only minor age related wear and tear as illustrated. The hinges of the case are operational.
