MONUMENTAL HIGGINS ARMOUR COLLECTION, LONG IN MOTHBALLS, TO OPEN IN WORCESTER, MASSACHUSETTS
This fall, the Worcester Art Museum welcomes you to its new Arms and Armour Galleries. Uncover the real stories behind myths and legends, brought to life through over 1,000 objects from around the world. Showcasing the Museum’s collection of arms and armor—the second largest of its kind in the United States—this new 5,000-square-foot space invites you to delve into timeless themes of bravery, power, identity, and honor, and reflect on how these concepts resonate in our lives today.
Rare artifacts, breathtaking artworks, and hands-on interactives make this experience perfect for all ages. With a focus on storytelling, the galleries will explore the societies and cultures in which these objects were used and reveal the skill and ingenuity required to create them. Discover the celebrity culture of Roman gladiators through a 2,000-year-old helmet. Marvel at ornate weapons-turned-fashion statements, like an Indian dagger worn to signify status and masculinity. Search the surfaces of brilliantly crafted suits of armor for clues about their makers. And come face-to-face with samurai Sakai Genzo through the ceremonial suit of armor he once wore.
The core of the Museum’s collection of arms and armor is the John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection. Previously housed at Worcester’s Higgins Armoury Museum until its closure, the collection was acquired by WAM in 2014. Now, this reimagined new installation will allow for the majority of these beloved treasures to be on display, using art to boldly redefine how we encounter them. The galleries are curated by Jeffrey L. Forgeng, WAM’s Higgins Curator of Arms & Armor and Medieval Art—who has curated the Higgins Armory Collection since 1999—to highlight the craftsmanship, technological innovation, and cultural significance of arms and armor throughout history.
The Worcester Art Museum is profoundly grateful to the funders, donors, consultants, and the many others who have supported this project. View the full list.
How to visit
All visitors
- Timed-entry reservations will be required for all visitors to the Arms and Armor Galleries.
- Reservations will be available online starting October 22 at noon ET. Subsequently, timeslots will be released every Wednesday at noon ET.
- Making a reservation online in advance is the only way to guarantee your entry into the Arms and Armor Galleries. There may be a very limited number of walk-up tickets available each day on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Reservations for the Arms and Armor Galleries include general admission to the entire Museum. While you must be ready to enter the Arms and Armor Galleries at the time on your ticket, you may enter the Museum at any time during regular hours to enjoy four floors of art.