Stirrup

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This stirrup bears on the rim of its footplate the name of its original owner, a certain Jacob Clas. This elaborated type of pierced decoration, here displaying geometrical motifs, is typical of the production of Eastern Germany at this time. The object is stamped on both sides with the control mark of Munich: a monk with upraised arms, the city’s heraldic device. Cities’ control marks are rare on iron equestrian equipment, and Munich seems to be the only one in the 17th century to require this practice, which is also documented on several contemporary horse bits (see for example 14.25.1812).

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