Flintlock Pistol

John Hall

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This pistol features a silver rococo side-plate and and silver pommel adorned with a mask–embellishments typical of many early to mid- 18th century English firearms. Pistols fitted with brass barrels and locks like this one, less costly than those made with steel components, were widely produced in the gunmaking centers of London and Birmingham.

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