War Hammer

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Like the mace, the war hammer became an important knightly weapon after the introduction of full plate armor. Its armor-breaking qualities are indicated by its heavy four-pronged hammer head and rear spike, the bec-de-corbin. For good measure a sharp stabbing spike has been added. In a way comparable to the symbolic use of the mace, the war hammer became an insignia of rank of lower-ranking cavalry officers. Long-shafted war hammers were popular with Swiss infantry, where the so-called Lucerne hammer replaced the ubiquitious halberd in some cantons.

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