Hunting Knife

Hunting Knife

Hans Sumersperger

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The grip is inlaid with the coat of arms of Austria in carved mother-of-pearl; the blade bears the mark of Hans Sumersperger, court knifesmith to Emperor Maximilian I (1459–1519). Such knives formed part of a group of implements that were used to prepare freshly killed game, including bear, wild boar, and deer, after a hunt.

Arms and Armor

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

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The principal goals of the Arms and Armor Department are to collect, preserve, research, publish, and exhibit distinguished examples representing the art of the armorer, swordsmith, and gunmaker. Arms and armor have been a vital part of virtually all cultures for thousands of years, pivotal not only in conquest and defense, but also in court pageantry and ceremonial events. Throughout time the best armor and weapons have represented the highest artistic and technical capabilities of the society and period in which they were made, forming a unique aspect of both art history and material culture.