Matchlock Gun (清 鳥銃)

Unknown

probably 18th–19th century · Steel, wood, copper, brass, iron, silver, gold · Arms and Armor

Matchlock guns, of both European and Turkish origin, were probably introduced into China in the early sixteenth century through sea and overland trade. Otherwise typical in its form, this gun is unusual for the lavish silver decoration running the length of its barrel, suggesting it was the personal weapon of a nobleman, either for hunting or military use.

Artist

Unknown

Date

probably 18th–19th century

Medium

Steel, wood, copper, brass, iron, silver, gold

Culture

Chinese

Department

Arms and Armor

Credit line

Bequest of George C. Stone, 1935