Bit Bosses

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

These two bosses, attached to the sides on a horse bit, appear similar but in fact do not originally form a pair. The rim of each is decorated with flowers and birds in blue, green, purple and yellow translucent enamel over patches of silver foil, standing out against a black background painted with golden scrolls. The domed central section is adorned with white, green, blue and yellow rays with flowers and scrolls using the same techniques. The bosses’ style and technique are typical of painted enamels made in Germany in the 16th century. Enameled harness ornaments are very rare because of their extreme fragility. Such pieces would only be used on special events like parades or equestrian demonstrations.

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