Wheellock Spanner with Priming Flask and Screwdriver

Daniel Sadeler

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This combination tool was made to match an elaborate hunting rifle. It includes a flask with a spring-loaded nozzle to hold gunpowder, a spanner to wind the wheellock mechanism of a hunting rifle, and a screwdriver to tighten or loosen parts of a rifle as needed.

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