Pair of Stirrups

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The large size of these stirrups is unusual for the period. They may have been used by a postilion, a driver riding one of the carriage horses. However stirrups for this purpose typically had simpler designs. Indeed, to prevent their legs being crushed between the two horses or the central wooden shaft, postilion riders wore heavy oversized reinforced boots, and they consequently needed larger spurs and stirrups. The small leather cushions are also unusual, and may be later additions.

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