Shaffron (Head Defense) for a Camel

Shaffron (Head Defense) for a Camel

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Camels were used in the Middle East not only for transport but also for battle. Judging from its sharply angled profile, this shaffron of steel plate was probably intended for a war camel. By contrast, shaffrons for horses have flat profiles.

Arms and Armor

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Shaffron (Head Defense) for a CamelShaffron (Head Defense) for a CamelShaffron (Head Defense) for a CamelShaffron (Head Defense) for a CamelShaffron (Head Defense) for a Camel

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.