Swiss Saber (<i>Schweizersäbel</i>)

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Swiss saber is distinguished by a very long, curved, and relatively thin blade, and a hilt fitted with a grip that is long enough to allow the weapon to be wielded with one hand or two. It was used in Switzerland from about the 1520s until the early seventeenth century. Often, from about the mid-sixteenth century onward, the pommel has the form of a lion’s head.

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