Antique Set of 19th Century Huaso-Style Carved Wood Stirrups/Equestrian Collectible from Chile/Argentina

Antique pair of South American hand-tooled carved wooden stirrups from the estate of John S. McKaughan Jr., a noted Latin American art collector from Texas. These stirrups date to the 1800s, are hand-carved and handmade in the Huaso-style, and have silver inlaid cast iron oxbow straps. 

A Huaso is a Chilean horseman who works to round up cattle grazing over large areas. They are very similar to the Cowboy of the American West or the Gaucho from Argentina. 

The set would be perfect on a side table or a shelf in a variety of neutral/natural settings whether Residential, Commercial or Hospitality interiors from Coastal Modern, Southwestern to Spanish Colonial. Also, they are a perfect equestrian collectible.  

Place of Origin: Chile/Argentina 

Date of Manufacture: 1800s  

Condition: Very Good 

Wear: Split wood along the left outside edge on the smaller stirrup. Consistent with age. Please refer to pictures. 

Dimensions: 

Left (Smaller): 6.25 in. H x 5.5 in. W x 7.5 in. D

(Opening) 6.75 in. to edge

Right (Larger): 7.25 in. H X 6 in. W X 8.5 in. D

(Opening) 7 in. to edge  

Reference: The John McKaughan Estate

John S. McKaughan Jr. (1927-2023) a native Texan, was born in Tahoka and moved to Lubbock where he graduated from Texas Tech University with a degree in Graphic Design, and a minor in Architecture.

Starting in the 1950’s, Mr. McKaughan brought his expertise and keen eye to Braniff International Airways based in Dallas, where he worked as the Art Director for 27 years. During that time, he collaborated alongside Alexander Calder, Emilio Pucci, Alexander Girard, Roy Halston Frowick and other artists to create a commercial design experience that rivaled galleries and museums. 

Due to the nature of his work, John travelled professionally as well as socially to the Latin American countries served by Braniff Airlines. He had the opportunity to collect works and antiques that he felt breathed life into the creative world and the human experience.