Wheellock Carbine

Unknown

ca. 1540–50 · Steel, wood (rosewood), gold, silver · Arms and Armor

The sophisticated use of gold and silver in the decoration of this weapon is exceptional. The damascened patterns on the barrel, lock plate, and mounts are echoed on the stock by engraved and inlaid foliate designs that recall bookbinders' ornament. The wheel is silvered and covered by a pierced gilt-bronze plate showing two Renaissance-inspired winged putti. The sickle-shaped spring encircling the wheel is chiseled in relief and gilt; the chiseled cock is left bright, like silver. Exceptionally well preserved for its age, this carbine reputedly comes from the collection of the margraves (later, grand dukes) of Baden.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 1540–50

Medium

Steel, wood (rosewood), gold, silver

Culture

German

Department

Arms and Armor

Credit line

Purchase, Harris Brisbane Dick Fund, Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Ochs Sulzberger Gift, in honor of Helmut Nickel, and Rogers Fund, Bashford Dean Memorial Collection, Funds from various donors, Gift of William H. Riggs and The Collection of Giovanni P. Morosini, presented by his daughter Giulia, by exchange, 1991