The Scottish Mountain Heritage Collection
837.2010.1(a-c)
Etrier - (rope & wood ladders)
13/05/2010
Hermione Cooper
13/05/2010
3 etrier. 3 silver painted wooden rungs on each.
wood, rope
127(l) x 23(w) cms
3
siver,cream
Like many words in the English language, particularly in the world of mountaineering, 'etrier' is borrowed from another mountaineering nation, in this case France, since etrier means a ladder, or more specifically a stirrup.
Jokes are often made about mountaineers needing ladders to climb rock faces - well it's no joke, they actually use them. If a rock face proves to be unclimbable by normal means i.e. hands and feet, then a piton, bolt or something similar can be banged into the rock and the etrier clipped into it for use as a ladder. Repeat the process and away you go up the rock face.
This type of climbing is known as artificial climbing and was much in vogue in the latter part of the 1900's and while the 'art' is still practised, better forms of protection and much higher climbing standards have seen many former artificial climbs now climbed free.
These three etrier seem to be rather lovingly homemade from Viking nylon rope and wooden steps, so simple and effective. Unfortunately, we don't know who made them but thanks to whoever it was. They are very nice.
13/05/2010
13/05/2010
Spectrum : UK Museum documentation standard, V.3.1 2007
13/05/2010
Petzl Bolts and Hangers
Rock drill
Troll Bolt Drill (minus drill head )
Troll Bolt Hangers
Troll Etrier