Wheellock Rifle c. 1720

This intricately detailed Wheellock Rifle, crafted by Josef Haller around 1720, showcases the artistry of firearms in the early 18th century. The rifle's stock is adorned with intricate engravings, highlighting the craftsmanship of this period. This particular example features a wheellock mechanism, a sophisticated firing system using a spring-powered wheel to ignite the gunpowder. The rifle, currently housed at The Art Institute of Chicago, serves as a reminder of the intersection of art, engineering, and weaponry in 18th-century Europe.