Rapier of Ambrogio Spinola (1569–1630) with Scabbard Chape

Rapier of Ambrogio Spinola (1569–1630) with Scabbard Chape

M. I. F.

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The hilt is finely decorated with small yet amazingly detailed scenes from the Old Testament, encircled by identifying inscriptions in Latin and French. The hilt is initialed M.I.F. three times by an unidentified medalist or sculptor. Inscribed on the back of the knuckle guard is the name of the owner, Ambrogio Spinola (1569–1630), commander in chief of the Spanish forces in the sourthern Netherlands from 1604 to 1609.

Arms and Armor

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Rapier of Ambrogio Spinola (1569–1630) with Scabbard ChapeRapier of Ambrogio Spinola (1569–1630) with Scabbard ChapeRapier of Ambrogio Spinola (1569–1630) with Scabbard ChapeRapier of Ambrogio Spinola (1569–1630) with Scabbard ChapeRapier of Ambrogio Spinola (1569–1630) with Scabbard Chape

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.