Pair of Stirrups

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This pair of stirrups is decorated with gilded bronze and silver overlay, and was originally probably deposited in the tomb of a wealthy Viking warrior. Although they are perhaps best known today for being gifted sailors, the Vikings also rode horses. As in all Germanic cultures, in fact, horses had great importance in their society and religion. Equestrian equipment like stirrups, spurs and bits are regularly found in Viking burials, next to weapons and other goods that the warriors wanted to bring with them to the afterlife, or alongside sacrificed horses that sometimes accompanied the wealthiest of these men.

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