Halberd

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Medici coat of arms and the Florentine fleur-de-lis are prominently featured in pierced designs on this halberd. It is a classic example of the period, characterized by a head with an ax-like blade balanced by a pointed rear beak, both surmounted by a narrow straight spear blade or spike, all mounted on a long wooden shaft.

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