Sword of the Achtkantschwert Type

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This sword exemplifies one of the most popular European types of the Middle Bronze Age period, which is commonly known as the "octagonal sword" (Achtkantschwert in German) in reference to the longitudinal division of the grip into eight facets. Although it exhibits all of the usual constructional and formal features of the type, the ornamentation of its hilt with punched dots and chased crescents is distinctive. Specifically, it is peculiar to a small group of octagonal swords, which have all been excavated in Germany, and are collectively known as the Hausmoning subtype in reference to the find spot of one specimen. In conception, it is especially close to that of two examples discovered in Unterföhring and Steinheim, respectively, both in Bavaria. The distribution of the dots and crescents on the hilt, and the absence of concentric circles around each punched dot, however, set this weapon apart from all other known examples, suggesting that it may represents a rare variant of a distinctive regional style of sword decoration.

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