Smith and Wesson .32 Caliber Single-Action Revolver, serial no. 17156

Tiffany & Co.|Smith & Wesson

1881–1902 · Steel, silver, copper-platinum-iron alloy, nickel · Arms and Armor

The grip is sheathed in silver and etched with foliage around shaped panels inlaid with laminated metal that has a wood-grain pattern. This Japanese technique, called mokume ("wood grain"), was one of various metalworking forms explored by Tiffany and Company's chief designer, Edward C. Moore (1827–1891). His experimentation with Japanese design elements and media helped to establish Tiffany's international reputation in the 1870s.

Artist

Tiffany & Co.|Smith & Wesson

Date

1881–1902

Medium

Steel, silver, copper-platinum-iron alloy, nickel

Culture

American, Springfield, Massachusetts and New York

Department

Arms and Armor

Credit line

Gift of Gerald Klaz, M.D., Trustee - The Gerald Klaz Trust, 2003