Wheellock Pistol 1555 - 1605

This Wheellock Pistol, crafted by German gunsmith Peter Danner between 1555 and 1605, exemplifies the intricate artistry and technical innovation of 16th-century firearms. The pistol is lavishly decorated with engraved floral and geometric patterns, and features a distinctive round pommel. Its wheellock mechanism, a sophisticated firing system that revolutionized gunpowder weapons, is visible and adds to the overall intricacy of the piece. The pistol, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, serves as a testament to the aesthetic and functional excellence of 16th-century German gunmaking.