Partisan of the Polish Noble Guard of Friedrich August I of Saxony, who twice ruled as king of Poland (1697–1704 and 1709–1733)

Partisan of the Polish Noble Guard of Friedrich August I of Saxony, who twice ruled as king of Poland (1697–1704 and 1709–1733)

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This staff weapon was carried by the bodyguards of the Prince-Electors of Saxony.

Arms and Armor

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Partisan of the Polish Noble Guard of Friedrich August I of Saxony, who twice ruled as king of Poland (1697–1704 and 1709–1733)Partisan of the Polish Noble Guard of Friedrich August I of Saxony, who twice ruled as king of Poland (1697–1704 and 1709–1733)Partisan of the Polish Noble Guard of Friedrich August I of Saxony, who twice ruled as king of Poland (1697–1704 and 1709–1733)Partisan of the Polish Noble Guard of Friedrich August I of Saxony, who twice ruled as king of Poland (1697–1704 and 1709–1733)Partisan of the Polish Noble Guard of Friedrich August I of Saxony, who twice ruled as king of Poland (1697–1704 and 1709–1733)

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.