Bowl of a Sallet

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Etching with acid is known to have been used for the embellishment of weapons since at least the thirteenth century, but the technique seems to have been applied to armor beginning in the late fifteenth century, several decades before it was adopted as a printmaking technique. Formerly gilt, the etched decoration on this example includes bands of foliage set against a diagonally hatched background. Similar ornament is found in contemporary Italian prints. The sallet was probably fitted with a large bellows visor pivoting at the sides and was intended for use by a light cavalryman.

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