Presentation Smallsword with Scabbard of Captain W. E. Cracraft

James Morisset

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The shell is engraved on the underside: "Presented by the commanders of the Jamaica ships in the London trade to Captⁿ. W.E. Cracraft, of his M.S. Severn for his particular care of the fleet of England in 1798." The enamels on the grip include Cracraft's initials and coat of arms.

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