American Longrifle
On loan to The Met
This work of art is currently on loan to the museum.Martin Shell worked in Paxton Township, near Harrisburg, and is considered one of the leading gunsmiths of Dauphin County. This rifle may be his finest work, demonstrated by its elegant architecture, confident and skillfully executed relief carving, boldly shaped and engraved patch box, and unusual but visually appealing use of inlaid silver wire under the forestock, as well as the silver appliques on the comb of the buttstock.
Artwork Details
- Title: American Longrifle
- Gunsmith: Martin Shell Jr. (American, 1763–1817 Paxton, Pennsylvania)
- Date: ca. 1800
- Geography: Pennsylvania
- Culture: American, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania
- Medium: Wood (maple), steel, iron, brass, silver
- Dimensions: L. 59 7/8 in. (152.1 cm); L. of barrel 44 1/2 in. (113 cm); Cal. .48 in. (12.19 mm); Wt. 9 lb. 8.4 oz. (4319 g)
- Classification: Firearms-Guns-Flintlock
- Credit Line: Private Collection
- Object Number: L.2019.15.2
- Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor
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