Combination Flintlock Pistol and Sword

Johannes Andreas Niefind

ca. 1740 · Steel, wood · Arms and Armor

A rare example of a distinctly German type of hunting weapon, this combination sword and flintlock pistol may be dated to about 1730 and confidently attributed to the gunmaker Johann Andreas Niefind (1674–1731) of Olbernhau, Saxony, on account of its similarities to works bearing his signature. It is one of only four such weapons he is known to have made, and unique for the martial inspiration of its refined chiseled ornamentation. Its blade, which is shorter than the other known examples, suggests that it was perhaps made to the measure of a specific individual. Combination swords and pistols were used for hunting deer and were popular through much of the eighteenth century.

Artist

Johannes Andreas Niefind

Date

ca. 1740

Medium

Steel, wood

Culture

German, Saxony

Department

Arms and Armor

Credit line

Purchase, Friends of Arms and Armor Gifts, 2018