Pair of Stirrups

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This pair of heavy and impressive wooden carved stirrups was probably made in the south of Mexico or in Guatemala. Their decoration is inspired from the double-headed imperial German eagle, a motif introduced to Spain during the Habsburg dynasty and from there imported to America. In this example however eagles seem to have been replaced by pairs of more peaceful tropical birds, possibly quetzals or parrots.

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