Pair of Wheellock Pistols

François Du Clos

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Du Clos was given lodgings in the Louvre in 1636. This honor was granted to select craftsmen in royal employ. The gilt foliate decoration on the metal parts of these pistols is attributed to the engraver Thomas Picquot, who shared Du Clos's atelier. Picquot published a firearms pattern book with similar designs in 1638.

Arms and Armor

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The principal goals of the Arms and Armor Department are to collect, preserve, research, publish, and exhibit distinguished examples representing the art of the armorer, swordsmith, and gunmaker. Arms and armor have been a vital part of virtually all cultures for thousands of years, pivotal not only in conquest and defense, but also in court pageantry and ceremonial events. Throughout time the best armor and weapons have represented the highest artistic and technical capabilities of the society and period in which they were made, forming a unique aspect of both art history and material culture.

Metropolitan Museum of Art