Design for a Percussion Pistol

Martin Riester

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

A talented draftsman and engraver, Riester designed ornament for many types of decorative objects, including jewelry, wall paper, glassware, book bindings, and elaborate firearms. Lavishly decorated guns, like that seen in this drawing, were made to showcase the talents of designers and gunsmiths at the great international exhibitions of arts, crafts, and industry that were held in Paris and London, such as the Crystal Palace Exhibition of 1851.

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