Design for the Decoration of Firearms 1772 - 1830

This design by Nicolas Noël Boutet, a French artist active in the late 18th and early 19th century, depicts a decorative pattern for firearms. Dating from 1772-1830, the drawing demonstrates the intricate detailing common in firearm ornamentation during this period. The delicate, flowing lines and floral motifs were characteristic of the Neoclassical style, popular in France during this era, reflecting a renewed interest in classical Greek and Roman art. This small-scale drawing, housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, provides insight into the design process and aesthetic preferences of the time.