Smith and Wesson .38 Caliber Double-Action Revolver, serial no. 70002

Smith and Wesson .38 Caliber Double-Action Revolver, serial no. 70002

Smith & Wesson

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The silver grip has a hammered surface popular in domestic silverware of the period. Its design reflects the elegant, whimsical style of Art Nouveau. The original design for the grip, dated 1883, is preserved in the Tiffany archives.

Arms and Armor

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Smith and Wesson .38 Caliber Double-Action Revolver, serial no. 70002Smith and Wesson .38 Caliber Double-Action Revolver, serial no. 70002Smith and Wesson .38 Caliber Double-Action Revolver, serial no. 70002Smith and Wesson .38 Caliber Double-Action Revolver, serial no. 70002Smith and Wesson .38 Caliber Double-Action Revolver, serial no. 70002

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.