Pair of Flintlock Pistols of the Prince of Wales, later George IV (1762–1830)

Pair of Flintlock Pistols of the Prince of Wales, later George IV (1762–1830)

Durs Egg

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

British firearms made for the Prince of Wales usually feature his distinctive crest, three ostrich feathers and a royal coronet, and motto, ICH DIEN (I serve), inlaid in gold or silver on the stock. Decorated with engraved silver mounts, these royal pistols have a small piece of lead embedded inside the grip, added by Egg as a counterbalance to the barrel and to give the firearm heft. The long, flat trigger guard with a bar at the front end is a regular characteristic of Durs Egg’s work and is a typical feature of contemporary French firearms.

Arms and Armor

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Pair of Flintlock Pistols of the Prince of Wales, later George IV (1762–1830)Pair of Flintlock Pistols of the Prince of Wales, later George IV (1762–1830)Pair of Flintlock Pistols of the Prince of Wales, later George IV (1762–1830)Pair of Flintlock Pistols of the Prince of Wales, later George IV (1762–1830)Pair of Flintlock Pistols of the Prince of Wales, later George IV (1762–1830)

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.