Rowel Spur (Left)

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The neck and arms of this luxurious spur are chiseled all over with a diaper pattern, the faceted diamond bosses silvered on a golden background. The points of the fragile rowel are shaped as very delicate palmettes. The three circular tabs with hooks feature the gilded profile of a young boy with a ruff collar on a silvered background. These heads seem inspired by the medal of the Infante Carlos, son of Philip II of Spain, aged 12, made in 1557 by Pompeo Leoni. The decoration and the fragility of this spur indicate that it was meant to be used in a festive or ceremonial context. For carousels and other equestrian games, noble riders would commission for themselves and their horses splendid outfits and tacks covered with elaborate motifs often repeated on the different elements composing them.

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