Parade Saddle

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

About twenty similarly decorated saddles exist, dating from the late fourteenth to the mid-fifteenth century. The shape, with its low, splayed cantle (rear of the seat), was characteristic of eastern European saddles, but the exact place of origin and original purpose of these examples of elaborately carved bone are unknown. Their decoration typically includes, as on the two examples diplayed here, Saint George and the dragon, unicorns, other mythical beasts, and pairs of lovers, often accompanied by romantic expressions in German script. The carving and inconography are reminiscent of Minnekästen, carved boxes that were given as lover's tokens.

Arms and Armor

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

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.

Metropolitan Museum of Art