Sallet

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Numerous holes along the edge and at the front and back indicate that this sallet, like acc. no. 29.158.17, probably was mounted several times during its working life with textile coverings and gilt-metal appliqués in the Venetian fashion. The bowl's rough, unfinished edge suggests that it has been trimmed. On the right side at the back are three Milanese-style armorers' marks: BE(?) beneath a crown and below, struck twice, three letters (A over AP?) beneath a split-legged cross. The same marks are found on a slightly earlier Italian cuirass in the Historisches Museum, Lucerne, Switzerland.

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