Pair of Wheellock Pistols 1585 - 1645

These pistols, crafted by renowned French gunsmith Pierre Le Bourgeois between 1585 and 1645, showcase the exquisite craftsmanship of the 16th and 17th centuries. The intricate wheellock mechanism, a complex system using a spring-powered wheel to ignite the powder, was a significant advancement in firearms technology. The pistols are visually striking, with one featuring delicate engravings on the barrel and intricate metalwork on the other. These objects, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, offer a glimpse into the artistry and firepower of the era.