Pair of Stirrups

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This decoration technique of smooth chiseled steel, polished to the point of mimicking silver, seems to have been popular in Northern Italy for the decoration of equestrian material in the second half of the 17th century. The swivel suspension eye allowed the stirrup leather to stay flat against the horse’s flank when the stirrup is used, but it is more fragile than regular non-rotating systems.

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