Close-Helmet for the Field

Martin Schmidt

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Although now marred by corrosion, the etched and gilt decoration on this helmet is of high quality. It is exceptional in that the etcher inscribed his name at the base of the bowl, Mart[in] Schmidt, and added the date, 1594, twice on the bottom rear collar lame. Few etcher's signatures are known, and this dated example by Schmidt, who is otherwise unrecorded, appears to be unique.

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