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Flintlock Pistol Made for Charles XI of Sweden (1655–1697)

Gunsmith Bertrand Piraube French
dated 1676
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 375
This is the earliest dated firearm by Piraube, the leading gunmaker in France during the reign of Louis XIV (1643–1715). Piraube worked in the Louvre, where lodging was granted by the French monarchs to the finest craftsmen in their employ. Firearms by Piraube were sought by princes throughout Europe, including Charles XI of Sweden (1655–1697), whose court emulated that of the French king. The Swedish royal arms are found on the barrel and on an escutcheon on the stock.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Flintlock Pistol Made for Charles XI of Sweden (1655–1697)
  • Gunsmith: Bertrand Piraube (French, Paris, recorded ca. 1663–1725)
  • Date: dated 1676
  • Geography: Paris
  • Culture: French, Paris
  • Medium: Steel, gold, wood (walnut)
  • Dimensions: L. 21 in. (53.3 cm)
  • Classification: Firearms
  • Credit Line: Purchase, Annie Laurie Aitken Charitable Trust Gift, 1990
  • Object Number: 1990.114.2
  • Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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