Dagger with Sheath

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Near Eastern blades were valued highly in Europe, and many fine examples were exported and mounted with European hilts. In this example, the Ottoman blade has been fitted with a hilt and sheath damascened with gold arabesques of Middle Eastern inspiration. The blade is inscribed in Persian (one of the languages of the Ottoman court): It is a dagger since it attempted [to take] the life of the unfaithful lover. My Turk took it [wrapped in gold] and bound it to his sash.

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