Arms and armor

The Museum’s collection of arms and armor is the second largest in the United States. Ranging from ancient Egypt to nineteenth-century Japan, this collection is comprised of over 1,500 objects. At its heart is a diverse array of full suits of armor from around the world.

The core of this collection is the John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection. Previously on view at Worcester’s Higgins Armory Museum until its closure, the collection was acquired by the Worcester Art Museum in 2014. A new gallery dedicated to arms and armor will open in the near future, enabling more of the collection to be on view simultaneously than ever before.

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Highlights

During your visit

Live presentations

Experience the excitement of live demonstrations and learn about the development and mechanics of arms and armor.

Costumed interpretations

Encounter costumed Roman, Viking, and Medieval presenters to learn about arms and armor in their time.

Armor Art Carts

Discover reproduction armor pieces and see for yourself how they worked.

Jousting
The Equipment of a Medieval and Renaissance Horse
Blade Weapons