Double-Barreled Wheellock Pistol Made for Emperor Charles V (reigned 1519–56)

Ambrosius Gemlich|Peter Peck

ca. 1540–45 · Steel, gold, wood (cherry), staghorn · Arms and Armor

One of the earliest pistols, this firearm was designed and produced by Peter Peck, a maker of watches and guns. The two locks combined in one mechanism provided the barrels with separate ignition. Made for Emperor Charles V (reigned 1519–56), the pistol is decorated with his dynastic and personal emblems: the double-headed eagle and the pillars of Hercules with the Latin motto PLUS ULTRA (More beyond).

Artist

Ambrosius Gemlich|Peter Peck

Date

ca. 1540–45

Medium

Steel, gold, wood (cherry), staghorn

Culture

German, Munich

Department

Arms and Armor

Credit line

Gift of William H. Riggs, 1913