Small Crossbow (Schnepper), Probably for a Woman or Child

Small Crossbow (Schnepper), Probably for a Woman or Child

Johann Gottfried Hänisch the Elder

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Made by the court crossbow-maker to the dukes of Saxony, this crossbow has an elegant and finely engraved inlay that distinguishes it as a weapon of high quality intended for use at the court in Dresden or in one of the other nearby ducal residences. The theme of the decoration might suggest that it was used for hunting small game, but the delicate size of this crossbow indicates that it probably was used by a lady or a child for shooting competitions, some of which would have been held indoors.

Arms and Armor

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Small Crossbow (Schnepper), Probably for a Woman or ChildSmall Crossbow (Schnepper), Probably for a Woman or ChildSmall Crossbow (Schnepper), Probably for a Woman or ChildSmall Crossbow (Schnepper), Probably for a Woman or ChildSmall Crossbow (Schnepper), Probably for a Woman or Child

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.