Lady's Stirrup

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Ladies’ side saddles of the 18th and early 19th century were made with only one stirrup on the left side of the horse, and were shaped at this time as slippers that would give more stability and elegance to the rider. A leather slipper was originally attached to the iron sole of this stirrup. The pierced decoration, however, showing a fleur-de-lis and two letter Ds, has been added later, to falsely suggest it belonged to Diane de Poitiers (1499-1566), the mistress of the French king Henri II.

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