Pointed Morion

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

In contrast to the bold sculptural forms of earlier Milanese parade armor (for example, acc. no. 20.150.2), embossed armor made in the second half of the sixteenth century was flatter and more pictorial, often with entire figural scenes from prints reproduced on the steel surfaces. The costumes are invariably gold-damascened, the skin of the figures is silvered. This example is embossed on both sides with variant scenes depicting the Roman hero Mucius Scaevola placing his hand in the fire before King Porsena. This distinctive form of lightweight infantryman's helmet, characterized by an almond-shaped bowl with turned-back point at the apex and a short brim, is referred to in contemporary English documents as a "Spanish morion." The term alludes to the common use of such helmets by Spanish troops rather than their place of manufacture, which was usually Italy.

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