Five Shot Double-Action Percussion Revolver with Shoulder Stock, Case, and Accessories

Five Shot Double-Action Percussion Revolver with Shoulder Stock, Case, and Accessories

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This revolver and detachable shoulder stock are part of an extensive and finely made cased set. The mechanism and technical features of the pistol are closely based on a British type, the Beaumont Adams revolver, patented in 1855 and a popular rival to the more renowned Colt revolvers. However, it is unlikely that this pistol was made in England due to the lack of any proof marks or serial numbers, which were required under British patent laws. The presence of two German coats of arms incorporated into the decoration of the pistol and its custom-made case and the German words guss-stahl (cast steel) on the pistol barrel indicate that the entire set was produced in Germany. The coat of arms on the butt of the pistol appears to belong to the Wedel family of Pomerania. The lid of the case is emblazoned with the arms of the Bismarck family, suggesting this set was made for or belonged to Otto von Bismarck (1815–1898), the most famous and influential German politician and diplomat of the second half of the nineteenth century.

Arms and Armor

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Five Shot Double-Action Percussion Revolver with Shoulder Stock, Case, and AccessoriesFive Shot Double-Action Percussion Revolver with Shoulder Stock, Case, and AccessoriesFive Shot Double-Action Percussion Revolver with Shoulder Stock, Case, and AccessoriesFive Shot Double-Action Percussion Revolver with Shoulder Stock, Case, and AccessoriesFive Shot Double-Action Percussion Revolver with Shoulder Stock, Case, and Accessories

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.