Shaffron (Horse's Head Defense)

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Armor made of gilt copper (tombak) was lighter and less protective than armor made of steel for use in battle but was ideally suited for parades, where visual impact was more important than defensive qualities. Tombak helmets, shields, shaffrons, and other military equipment may have been worn by the Ottoman imperial guard.

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