Bronze toggle in the shape of a stirrup. The stirrup is a Chinese invention dating back to the Song period (AD 960 – 1279) or possibly even earlier. It made horse riding and fighting much easier as it provided a stable platform for the warrior. We have not been able to find the meaning of a stirrup in Chinese symbolism yet but we have a strong feeling that it represents ‘stepping up’ (career advancement). It dates from the Qing period (1644- 1912). Height 2.97 cm. Width 2.4 cm. Depth 2.0 cm.