Pair of Percussion Target Pistols Made for Display at the Crystal Palace Exhibition in London, 1851 1851

Alfred Gauvain's "Pair of Percussion Target Pistols Made for Display at the Crystal Palace Exhibition in London, 1851" are an example of finely crafted firearms from the 19th century. These pistols, with their ornate silver inlays and intricate designs, were not intended for combat but rather as decorative pieces showcased at the Great Exhibition of 1851 in London. The silverwork highlights a sophisticated level of craftsmanship and would have likely captivated the attention of visitors to the Crystal Palace. The pistols, now held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, remain a testament to the artistry and technical skill of the Victorian era.