Pair of stirrups, Japan, 19th century

Solid bronze stirrups, the buckle and its mount having been made from another salvaged bit of brass. At the front of the stirrup, an embossed dragon with golden eyes, and a front view, emerging from the clouds, claws extended. The clouds continue under the board, but in red encrusted copper. Under the clouds, a wild sea encrusted with silver spray and copper droplets. On each mount, the flaming gem that traditionally challenges dragons in the sky is embossed on an open, golden backdrop. The interior of the base is decorated with lacquered black paper-maché and embellished with mother-of-pearl.