Rowel Spur (Left)

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This impressive spur is part of a group of oversized and lavishly decorated German spurs made in the second half of the 16th and the beginning of the 17th century, probably in Saxony. This example displays a large and extravagant eight-pointed rowel, each of the points holding a small rowel itself. Some types of spurs with several rowels were used in the 17th century with particularly difficult horses. However, on this spur it seems to be more an ornamental luxurious feature, for a pair worn like a piece of jewelry, rather than a truly equestrian improvement. Such examples of multi-rowel spurs are known in Germany since the mid-16th century. The impracticality of these spurs indicate that they were probably only used during parade and festive events, as a display of wealth and status. The width of the branches suggests they were worn over large cavalry boots.

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