Rondel for a Shaffron (Horse's Head Defense)

Kaspar Riederer

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This rondel was formerly attached to a shaffron also in the Metropolitan Museum's collection (acc. no. 14.25.1661a). It bears the mark of Kaspar Riederer, who belonged to a small community of armorers located at Mühlau, near Innsbruck, in the Tyrol. These armorers worked extensively for Archduke Siegmund, duke of Tyrol, producing armors for the prince, his family, and aristocratic members of the ducal court.

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