Stirrup

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This stirrup is exceptional for the quality and lively nature of the dragonheads at the top of its arch, for its overall form and balance, and for the use of brass cladding over iron as a decorative technique, which is otherwise unknown on Tibetan or Mongolian stirrups. Its worn, hand-rubbed finish also shows that this stirrup was well appreciated over many generations for its tactile beauty.

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