It's clearly one of a set of horse crampons for mountaineers too lazy to climb the icy slopes on foot. You see, climbing mountains began gaining popularity in the late 1800's but, as with many great spots, it became quite fashionable, even inspiring those without an athletic bone in their body to attempt glacial summits. This invention was created to aide the more delicate ladies and gentlemen in joining the latest sports craze. The horses were not amused.
Adventure Fiction, ladies M