Rowel Spur (Left)

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This gilded spur is engraved overall with vegetal decoration, as well as with the French word BIEN (good) in gothic script on both sides. The square chape of a broken buckle, gilded and decorated with champlevé enamel is associated with this spur, but does not belong to it. Around 1400, the length of the rowel spurs’ necks started to increase in Western Europe, some examples extending even as long as the rider’s foot in the 15th century. At this period, the elevated war saddles and the very specific riding style, with long stirrup leathers and legs extended forward, had the consequence of taking away the rider’s feet from the horse’s flank. Thus, these long necks gave them easier access without having to disturb the rider’s position. As well as being necessary equestrian instruments, spurs were one of the symbols of knightly status, and were among the objects given to the knight during his knighting.

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