The nineteenth century witnessed a rapid evolution of European gunmaking, which included the invention of ingenious new ignition systems and the introduction of standardized and interchangeable machine-made parts. The art of firearms decoration nevertheless continued to flourish and indeed was promoted at the international exhibitions held regularly during the second half of the century. Although French manufacturers dominated the field of richly embellished sporting arms, they were not without competition. One of the more ambitious German craftsmen was the little-known R. Berger of Köthen, who was court gunmaker to the dukes of Anhalt. Berger sent displays to the world's fairs of 1855, 1862, and 1867, where his guns were praised for their modernity of design and quality of decoration. Our newly acquired rifle, one of the few nineteenth-century German arms in the Museum's collection, exemplifies these virtues. The extent, variety, and accomplishment of the engraved ornament are noteworthy, with the mechanism and barrel covered with dense foliate scrolls framing cartouches enclosing trophies of arms, classical and allegorical figures, and a hunter in contemporary costume. There can be little doubt that this rifle was created as a showpiece for the gunmaker's skills.