Mordant
Unknown Artist
15th–17th century
Medium
Bronze, patina
Dimensions
H. 15/16 in. (2.4 cm); W. 1 1/8 in. (2.9 cm); thickness 1/4 in. (0.6 cm); Wt. 0.2 oz. (5 g)
Classification
Miscellaneous-Buckles & Ornament
Culture
European
Department
Arms and Armor
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Bashford Dean Memorial Collection, Funds from various donors, 1929
Accession Number
29.158.828
Art Historical Context
Nestled in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Arms and Armor Department, this petite bronze *Mordant* from 15th–17th Europe exemplifies the exquisite craftsmanship of everyday military accessories. Measuring just under an inch tall and wide, with a featherlight weight of 0.2 ounces, this buckle or strap ornament—classified among miscellaneous fittings—was likely used to secure harnesses, belts, or armor components. Its compact form belies its practical ingenuity, designed for durability in the rigors of Renaissance and early modern warfare or equestrian pursuits. Crafted from bronze and adorned...