Pair of Snaphaunce Pistols 1690

These finely crafted snaphaunce pistols, created by Matteo Cecchi, known as Acquafresca, in 1690, exemplify the artistry of Italian gunsmithing. Their intricate silver inlays, featuring delicate floral motifs and scrolling patterns, adorn the barrels and stocks. The pistols, now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, are not only functional weapons but also testaments to the artistic skill of the period. Their elegant design and meticulous ornamentation showcase the high regard for craftsmanship in 17th-century Italy.