Smallsword

James Morisset

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This hilt is closely related to a number of English snuffboxes and other small gold objects set with Neoclassical enamels in grisaille. The enamel with Hercules strangling the Nemean Lion (on the reverse of the grip) is signed AT, probably for Augustin Toussaint, a miniaturist and enameler. Toussaint was the nephew of the goldsmith James Morisset, who made two enameled presentation swords in the Metropolitan Museums' collection (26.145.315, 42.50.35). Unlike the presentation swords, however, this example is much freer in design and more lavish in ornament. The enamels are copied after English engravings of Classical cameos and gems.

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