Pair of Snaphaunce Pistols 1690

These Snaphaunce Pistols were made by Matteo Cecchi, called Acquafresca, an Italian artist who died in 1738. They present us with a paradox: instruments of violence adorned with symbols of wealth and status. Made during the Baroque period, these pistols reflect the aesthetic preferences of the European aristocracy. The elaborate silver inlays and meticulous craftsmanship speak to a culture where even tools of destruction were elevated to works of art. Their creation and ownership highlight social stratification in the 17th and 18th centuries when firearms were becoming more common. The pistols can also be seen as symbols of power. Understanding these objects requires delving into historical records, from guild documents detailing craftsmanship to estate inventories revealing ownership. Approaching art history through this lens allows us to uncover the complex interplay between aesthetics, power, and social structure.