The Resurrection

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Resurrection, referring to the moment at which Christ rises from his tomb, was a popular scene in medieval religious art. Traditionally, soldiers are shown fast asleep around the tomb, oblivious to the miracle occurring in their midst. Often, the armor and weapons of the soldiers are accurate representations of what was worn and used in the place and period in which an artwork was created. Bashford Dean (1867–1928), founding curator of the Department of Arms and Armor, formerly owned this alabaster relief. As part of his large private collection of arms and armor, Dean eagerly sought out and acquired works of art, which he called documents, if they accurately depicted historical armor and weapons.

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