Stirrup

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

One of the branches of this stirrup retains part of its decoration consisting in a brass applique strip engraved with a zigzag motif, and a cast bronze terminal. This type of stirrup is typical of the Germanic populations living in central Europe in the 10th-11th century. Horses had a great importance in the society of the Germanic cultures living in these areas, in both social and religious aspects. Equestrian equipment, like stirrups, spurs and bits, are regularly found in their burials, among the goods warriors wanted to bring with them to the afterlife. The elite would sometimes even be accompanied by sacrificed horses, a meaningful practice at that time, considering the high economic value of horses.

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