Defense for the Lower Left Forearm (Vambrace)

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This piece is notable for the early presence of stop-ribs, the two curved struts riveted to the outer and inner plates. These were designed to stop the point of a weapon from sliding into a vulnerable joint or gap between the plates.

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