Prick Spur (Left)

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The prick spurs traditionally used in most of the Islamic world evolved directly from late Antique examples. They consist of straight U-shaped branches bearing a very long prick with sometimes a disc at its base. The flat loop at the top of the heel is used for attaching the strap going around the ankle. Here the latter and the left side of the spur are adorned with silver foil bands chiseled with vegetal scrolls and inlaid with coral cabochons, a type of decoration also found on Algerian Berber jewelry as well. Traditionally, Moroccan riders take great pride in their horses and still frequently adorn them with shiny and colorful tack for parades and festivals. Wealthy riders would increase their prestige by covering their mount with luxurious material and equipping themselves with as luxurious matching accessories.

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