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Head of a Hunting Spear

1425–50
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 373
Spearheads such as this one were used for hunting various types of large game, especially wild boar, deer, and bear. The protruding wings on either side of the base were intended to check the forward momentum of a charging animal, keeping it at a safe distance from the hunter. The fine brass inlay decorating the spearhead is a reminder that hunting was a favorite pastime of nobility during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Head of a Hunting Spear
  • Date: 1425–50
  • Culture: German or Austrian
  • Medium: Steel, copper alloy
  • Dimensions: L. 17 5/16 in. (44 cm); W. 5 1/8 in. (13 cm)
  • Classification: Shafted Weapons
  • Credit Line: Gift of William H. Riggs, 1913
  • Object Number: 14.25.321
  • Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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