Wheellock Rifle 1615 - 1675

Caspar Spät's "Wheellock Rifle" is a stunning example of 17th-century German gunsmithing. The rifle's intricate ornamentation includes gold and silver inlays, showcasing the skill of the artist. The design of the rifle, with its elaborate patterns and luxurious materials, reflects the artistry and craftsmanship of the period. The firearm's unique "wheellock" mechanism, a sophisticated firing system for the time, further emphasizes the technological advancements of the era. This piece, housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, stands as a testament to the convergence of art and weaponry in the 17th century.