Pair of Officer's Spurs

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This type of prick spur, here proudly inscribed "Never Rust" on each of them, was commonly used in Britain and the United States in the first quarter of the 20th century, and by the cavalry during World War I. However, the absence on this pair of any "US" or "ENGLAND" stamp indicates that it was not part of a regulation cavalry package and may not have been used in a military context.

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