Mace

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Steel armor evolved throughout the sixteenth century as a practical defense against most handheld weapons, including swords designed for cutting or thrusting and percussive weapons such as maces, war hammers, and axes. As with armor, some highly decorated weapons were made for active use, while others were purely ceremonial. By the end of the century, widespread use of firearms and artillery undermined the protective capabilities of traditional plate armor, leading to its gradual disuse in the seventeenth century.

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