Standing Shield

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Shields of this exceptionally large size and weight (49 lb. [22 kg]) were propped on the ground to form a wall that protected archers and infantrymen. This example is decorated with the coat of arms of the city of Erfurt––a silver wheel on a red ground––and was probably made before 1324, when the city's coat of arms changed.

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