Percussion Longrifle

John Settel

ca. 1835–1840 · Wood ( maple, ash), steel, iron, brass, silver · Arms and Armor

Active in the later phases of the longrifle era, John Settel was a talented gunsmith whose work shows strong influences of the Emmitsburg School in neighboring Maryland. Few rifles from this period achieve the combination of craftsmanship and creativity seen in this example. It is notable for its dramatic patch box and other brass and silver fittings engraved with restrained but attractive flourishes, all of which are well balanced in the overall architecture of the gun. The incised carving on the cheek side is a thoughtful interpretation of the rococo C-scrolls designs that inspired earlier generations of gunsmiths.

Artist

John Settel

Date

ca. 1835–1840

Medium

Wood ( maple, ash), steel, iron, brass, silver

Culture

American, Franklin Township, Adams County, Pennsylvania

Department

Arms and Armor

Credit line

Purchase, Mr. and Mrs. Richard L. Chilton Jr. Gift, 2018