Spring Device
Unknown Artist
13th century
Medium
Bronze
Dimensions
L. 4 1/2 in. (11.4 cm)
Classification
Miscellaneous
Culture
possibly French, possibly German
Department
Arms and Armor
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Clarence H. Mackay, Archer M. Huntington, Stephen H. P. Pell and Bashford Dean, 1928
Accession Number
28.99.53
Art Historical Context
Nestled in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Arms and Armor Department, the *Spring Device* is a compact bronze artifact from the 13th century, measuring just 4½ inches (11.4 cm) in length. Crafted by an unknown artist, possibly from France or Germany, this enigmatic piece falls under the "Miscellaneous" classification, hinting at its role as a functional component rather than a standalone weapon or armor. Donated in 1928 by prominent collectors including Bashford Dean, it exemplifies the exquisite metalwork of medieval Europe. In the High Middle Ages, such devices were vital to the era's adva...