Bit Boss

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The center part of this horse bit boss displays the royal coat of arms of the United Kingdom, which consists, at that time, of the association of the arms of France, Scotland, Ireland and England. The shield is topped by a crowned helmet, circled by the Order of the Garter and flanked by the two traditional supporters of the British arms: a lion and a unicorn. The pierced rim consists of a frieze alternating the French fleur-de-lis (France was an official claim for England since the 14th century) and the English rose.

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