Vuursteenpistool c. 1690

These flintlock pistols were made by Gerrit Lasonder II sometime before his death in 1732. They are a striking example of the ways in which power and status were materially manifested in the 18th century. Consider how these objects were not merely functional but also conveyed complex messages about the owner’s identity and place within a deeply hierarchical society. The pistols, beyond their utility, were also symbols of authority and control. The elaborate engravings are not just decorative but speak to the cultural values of elegance and refinement that were associated with the ruling classes. They reflect the intricate dance between violence and beauty, dominance, and artistry. What narratives might these objects tell about a time of colonial expansion and conflict? Do these pistols evoke a sense of awe, a sense of unease, or perhaps a combination of both?