Portions of a Field Armor

Portions of a Field Armor

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

These pieces were once part of a complete armor designed for use in battle. Its missing parts include the helmet, collar, gauntlets, and leg defenses. Even though incomplete, this armor is notable for the quality of its construction, the elegance of its form, accented by prominent roped ridges, and for its lively etched decoration. The etched decoration features distinctive female heads, birds, and trophies amid foliate scrolls, all derived from prints by Daniel Hopfer (1471–1536). It is believed that early in his career, Hopfer etched ornament and figures on armor. Emperor Maximilian especially favored armor decorated with Italianate motifs in the Northern Renaissance style.

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.