Wildly popular in the late 18th and 19th century, stirrup cups are rather niche items that are slowly growing in popularity in the antique market due to its scarcity and highly decorative attributes. 

Often made of metal, silver or porcelain, their “feet” often take the shape of an animal, or something related to hunting such as the head of a stag, a hound, a boar or a bear.  Other versions can also depict a funny character or a simple glass ball. 

Used as a parting cup during a “Chasse à Courre” or fox hunting meet (A meet is the assembling of the hunt before the departure), this little glass of liquid courage is meant to be drank quickly while already mounted on your horse hence the name “ stirrups”. While there are no firm rules as to what should be served, port and sherry are often the drink of choice.

 Although its origin remains unclear, many believe that they were once served to guests on their way out and originally carried on special made boards with holes by the serving staff. 

While we are on the topic, here are a few hunting terms that are often used:   

Todd : A fox is often called a “Tod”, the old English word for fox or "Charlie", named for the politician Charles James Fox.

 A cry : Any hound owners (myself included) can testify that a hounds doesn’t bark… it cries! 

Quarry: The animal being hunted

Tally Ho : A cry by the staff member (usually the huntsman) at the sight of the quarry

Colours : To be “awarded the colours” is a badge of honour that means that you have met all required standards for hunting. These pins or buttons are usually worn on the collars of the hunt coat. Each club has their own. Some clubs also have strict rules when it comes to the colour of coat that can be worn. In some clubs the “red” (often referred to as Scarlet or hunting pink) is restricted to the hunting staff only.  

Photo Source:

Cover: J Gaiger Hunt " Stirrup Cup at Meet"

Stirrup cups, map and photograph from personal collection