Armet

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The medieval English custom of hanging a helmet over a tomb as part of the deceased's funerary "achievement" continued well into the seventeeth century. Thanks to this practice, numerous early helmets have been preserved. Like many "church helmets," this example is composite, being made up of old, reused parts assembled somewhat haphazardly for mortuary use. The bowl, which originally was fitted with a brow reinforce, and the cheekpieces are Italian. The right side of the bowl at the back bears faint traces of three Milanese armorers' marks: a crown surmounting letters and, struck twice below, a split-legged cross enclosing two letters. (The visor and upper bevor are adapted from other helmets and the rondel is modern.)

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