Repeating Flintlock Pistol 1665 - 1725

This repeating flintlock pistol was made by Michele Lorenzoni, an Italian gunsmith active in Florence around the late 17th and early 18th centuries. During Lorenzoni's time, firearms were not only tools for hunting and warfare, but also symbols of power and status. Crafting firearms like this one was shaped by the patronage of European elites, and it reflects the intricate dance between art, technology, and social hierarchy. The pistol’s repeating mechanism allowed for multiple shots without reloading. Consider the implications of this enhanced firepower during a period marked by colonial expansion and social unrest. Weapons like these played a role in shaping historical power dynamics, underscoring how technological advancements can amplify existing inequalities. As you observe the detailed silver ornamentation on the pistol's wooden stock and barrel, take a moment to reflect on the lives touched and altered by its existence.