Hilt of a Ritual or Votive Sword

Hilt of a Ritual or Votive Sword

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Intended for a ritual or votive sword, this hilt appears to be unique, particularly for its large proportions and its iconography. At the base of the hilt there is a lion-like head called a kirtimukha, which was widely used as a symbol of watchfulness, protection, and good fortune. Engraved on both sides of the hilt there are images known as wet skulls and dry skulls, which belong to the iconography of Tibetan wrathful guardian deities.

Arms and Armor

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Hilt of a Ritual or Votive SwordHilt of a Ritual or Votive SwordHilt of a Ritual or Votive SwordHilt of a Ritual or Votive SwordHilt of a Ritual or Votive Sword

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.