Dagger with Sheath

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The figure at the top of this beautifully carved ivory hilt is an iconic Nepalese representation of Garuda, a popular divinity associated with the Hindu god Vishnu. From at least the sixth century, Garuda was depicted as a handsome man with wings, resting on one knee and with hands clasped in prayer.

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