Burgonet of the Guard of Pope Julius III

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The bold and colorful decoration, etched and gilt on a blued ground, includes a medallion containing the profile portrait of Pope Julius III (Giovanni Maria del Monte, 1487–1555, elected pope in 1550) surmounted by the stylized three-lobed mountain of the del Monte arms. The style and technique of the decoration anticipate the Brescian-made armors traditionally worn by the Papal Swiss Guard from the late sixteenth century.

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