Spearhead (明/清 矛頭)
An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art
Despite its heavy surface patina, this spearhead is very similar to another example in The Met's collection (acc. no. 2000.206a, b) for the form of its blade and the presence of a realistic braided ring rendered in chiseled steel (here at the midpoint, rather than the base of the socket). At its base there is a collar of stylized lotus petals and a ring of the trefoil-like ruyi motif. The surface above this is damascened in gold with simplified designs of flaming pearls and mountains and waves.
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.