Escutcheon Plate of a Shaffron (Horse's Head Defense)

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Escutcheon plates probably developed from early reinforces but were later employed primarily for the display of dynastic arms or personal imprese. Occasionally they also incorporated more fanciful motifs of purely decorative type such as this highly original and rare example of anthropomorphic shape and classical decoration. While the motif of a mooress holding a shield reflects the European fascination with "exotic" races, the scene on the shield represents Hercules battling the river god Acheloüs in the guise of a bull. One of his horns, broken off during the fight, was later given to the Goddess of Plenty, the cornucopia henceforth becoming her symbol (two such cornucopiae are embossed above the figure of Hercules).

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