Shaffron

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Although relatively unsophisticated in its manufacture, this shaffron is exceptionally rare, possibly unique, for its completeness, retaining all of its original plates and its textile backing. Most other surviving Indian shaffrons of this type consist solely of the long, ogival main plate, the shape of which is the defining feature of these shaffrons. A prime example of the type is a shaffron in the Metropolitan Museum's collection (acc. no. 2008.197). The latter is important both because it is very finely made and because it is inscribed with a date, A.H. 1062/A.D. 1617–18), and the name of a sultan of Golconda, providing a chronological and geographical context for all similar shaffrons.

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