Harness Ornament

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This large circular copper alloy plaque, cast with scrolls in faux-filigree and enameled, would have probably adorned a horse harness. A central rivet fixed it to the leather or textile while the two small holes, pierced on the top border, would be used for sewing it to its support so it could stay flat despite its weight.

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