Pair of flintlock pistols c. 1680

These flintlock pistols were made by Leonardus Graeff in the Netherlands, sometime between 1645 and 1705. The pistols combine lethal force with luxury. These weapons speak to the militarization of Dutch society during its Golden Age. In the 17th century, the Dutch Republic was a major naval power, engaged in global trade and colonial expansion, all of which required military strength. At the same time, the elaborate decoration of these pistols reflects the wealth and artistic sophistication of the Dutch elite. The ivory and silver inlays, along with the sculpted human figure on the handle, transform the functional object into a work of art. As historians, we can examine archival records, military histories, and art inventories to understand the cultural significance of these objects. By studying the social and institutional context, we can interpret how these pistols represent the intersection of power, wealth, and artistic expression in the Dutch Golden Age.