Pair of Flintlock Pistols
Unknown Artist
late 18th–early 19th century
Medium
Steel, wood, coral, silver, gold
Dimensions
36.25.2246a; L. 19 in. (48.3 cm); L. of barrel 12 7/8 in. (32.7 cm); Cal. .65 in (16.5 mm); Wt. 3 lb. 0.9 oz. (1386.3 g); 36.25.2246b; L. 19 in. (48.3 cm); L. of barrel 12 13/16 in. (32.5 cm); Cal. .64 in (16.3 mm); Wt. 3 lb. 0.5 oz. (1375 g)
Classification
Firearms-Pistols-Flintlock
Culture
Algerian
Department
Arms and Armor
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Bequest of George C. Stone, 1935
Accession Number
36.25.2246a, b
Art Historical Context
This pair of Algerian flintlock, dating to the late 18th or early 19th century exemplifies the exquisite craftsmanship of North African arms makers. Crafted from steel for durable barrels and mechanisms, with wooden stocks inlaid with vibrant coral, silver, and, these pistols blend lethal functionality with opulent decoration. Measuring about 19 inches long with .65- and .64-inch calibers, they weigh around 3 pounds each—stantial yet balanced for horseback or dueling use. The slight variations in barrel length (12 7/8 12 13/16 inches) highlight the handcrafted nature of such pieces. As flintl...