Burgonet

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This is a rare, late example of French embossed armor. The gilt fleur-de-lis rivet heads along the edges, the fleur-de-lis plate at the apex of the bowl, and the laurel branches around the collar suggest it was made for Louis XIII of France (reigned 1610–43).

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