Cuirass (<i>Hara-Ate</i>)

Cuirass (<i>Hara-Ate</i>)

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The hara-ate is a simple form of body armor that covers mainly the chest and abdomen (hara). Because of its light weight, it was also worn under regular or formal costumes, similar to a modern stab vest.

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.