American Longrifle

Nicholas Hawk

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Although unsigned, this rifle can be identified as the work of Nicholas Hawk, a gunsmith active in the eastern part of Northampton (later Monroe) County. Less elaborate than some rifles made by Hawk, it still displays the chief hallmarks of his individual style, including a long and narrow patch box with a spiky head piece, simple but effective decorative engraving on the brass fittings, and the dramatically elongated contour of its slender gunstock, made of curly maple with dark diagonal striping on a light-brown background.

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