Prick Spur

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This exceptional spur has features in common with Germanic and Gallo-Roman examples from around the 3rd century. However its size and width make it very unusual, as spurs from this period are normally very small. The spur was secured to the foot by the means of straps attached to the side buttons and to the small hook shaped as a small stylized horse’s head. The state of preservation and the partially removed black patina indicate that it may have been found in a humid context with a low level of oxygen, like a bog, preserving the metal from rust. In this case this spur would have probably been thrown there as an offering. Germanic populations regularly offered sacrifices of military and equestrian objects (including war booties) to their gods in this way after a successful battle.

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