Shaffron (Horse's Head Defense)

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This shaffron is noteworthy not only for its large size but also for the unusual sculptural quality imparted by the boldly roped double ridges and the boss on the forehead. The fluted surfaces increased the rigidity of the plate but also served to lighten the shaffron's massive form. This piece of armor exemplifies the distinctive new fashion for fluted armor that developed in Germany in the early sixteenth century and remained popular until about 1530.

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