Horse Tack Ornament

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This small bronze element, shaped as a pelta shield, decorated the horse tack of a German-Roman rider, probably fighting in the Imperial army. The pelta was the traditional Thracian light infantry shield during Hellenistic times, and the shield of the legendary Amazons. During the Roman period it was used as an apotropaic ornament (a protection from the evil eye) and possibly a symbol of the warrior's virtues.

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