Pair of Rowel Spurs

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

These spurs, originally gilded, are entirely chased with crescents facing up and down alternately. Large pierced foliate buckles are attached on the outer side of each spur. The points of the rowel were originally longer, sharper and more slender, as revealed by the size of the rowel box, a feature observed on other contemporary examples. The points have been intentionally blunted, maybe to suit a secondary owner.

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