Flintlock Pistol

William Green

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The lock and stock of this pistol were made in London around 1720. The engraved barrel, however, bears an earlier Scottish mark, suggesting that if the pistol was not originally mounted with this special barrel it may be a replacement from the pistol’s working life. The barrel dates from ca. 1680–1700, and is engraved with strapwork, foliation, and roses.

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