Pair of Flintlock Turn-Off Pistols
ca. 1760–80
Medium
Steel, wood (walnut), silver
Dimensions
32.75.136; L. 11 3/4 in. (29.9 cm); L. of barrel L. 6 13/16 in. (17.3 cm); Cal. .59 in. (15 mm); Wt. 1 lb. 3 oz. (538.6 g); 32.75.137; L. 11 3/4 in. (29.9 cm); L. of barrel 6 7/8 in. (17.5 cm); Cal. .59 in. (15 mm); Wt. 1 lb. 3 oz. (538.6 g)
Classification
Firearms-Pistols-Flintlock
Culture
British, London
Department
Arms and Armor
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
The Collection of Giovanni P. Morosini, presented by his daughter Giulia, 1932
Accession Number
32.75.136–.137
Art Historical Context
Step into the elegant yet lethal world of 18th-century British arms with this exquisite pair of flintlock turn-off pistols, crafted around 1760–80 by London gunsmiths Daniel Moore and John King. Measuring about 11¾ inches long with .59-caliber barrels, these matching firearms exemplify the pinnacle of Regency-era gunmaking. Their steel components, walnut stocks, and silver accents reflect the refined craftsmanship of London's gun trade, where functionality met artistry. Flintlock turn-off pistols like these were designed for speed and precision: the barrels unscrew from the breech for swift r...
About the Artist
Daniel Moore|John King (British| ) · 1758 |1775 –1800 |1850
British, recorded 1758–ca. 1800|British, recorded from 1775