Pair of Flintlock Pistols of the Prince of Wales, later George IV (1762–1830)

Michael Barnett|Durs Egg

hallmarked for 1793–94 · Steel, wood (walnut, rosewood), silver, gold, horn, lead · Arms and Armor

British firearms made for the Prince of Wales usually feature his distinctive crest, three ostrich feathers and a royal coronet, and motto, ICH DIEN (I serve), inlaid in gold or silver on the stock. Decorated with engraved silver mounts, these royal pistols have a small piece of lead embedded inside the grip, added by Egg as a counterbalance to the barrel and to give the firearm heft. The long, flat trigger guard with a bar at the front end is a regular characteristic of Durs Egg’s work and is a typical feature of contemporary French firearms.

Artist

Michael Barnett|Durs Egg

Date

hallmarked for 1793–94

Medium

Steel, wood (walnut, rosewood), silver, gold, horn, lead

Culture

British, London

Department

Arms and Armor

Credit line

Bequest of Charles N. Daly, 1934