Pair of Wheellock Pistols Made for the Bodyguard of the Prince-Elector of Saxony 1585 - 1635

These wheellock pistols were made by Simon Helbig in the 17th Century. They were constructed from steel, wood, bone and precious metals. Look closely, and you can appreciate the variety of materials and processes, the way each is uniquely fashioned and fitted together. The barrels, made of blued steel, contrast against the ornate decorations of ivory and bone. These are inlaid into the wooden stocks to create a striking surface. The wheel-lock mechanism itself, a complex arrangement of geared and sprung parts, represents a highpoint in early firearm technology. These pistols speak to a culture in which technological innovation was matched by artistic refinement. Notice the contrast between the industrial processes required to make the guns functional, against the highly skilled artistry required to make them status symbols for the elite. They highlight the important position of the Prince-Elector. Ultimately, this pairing challenges any strict separation of art, craft, and engineering.