Combination Sword and Wheel-lock Pistol

Description This is a rare example of a type of combination weapon coveted by princes fascinated with innovative mechanical technology combined with fine detailing etched in the steel. A similar one was made for Elector Christian I of Saxony by Bernhard Albrecht, about 1590. Emperor Rudolf II also acquired one about the same time.

Exhibitions

• World of Wonder. The Walters Art Gallery, Baltimore. 1971-1972.

Provenance Richard Zschille, Grossenhain, Saxony (?); Sale, London, January 25, 1897, no. 114 (?); Samuel H. Austin, Philadelphia [date and mode of acquisition unknown] (?); Sale, New York, February 24, 1917, no. 603 (?); Harding [date and mode of acquisition unknown]; Henry Walters, Baltimore, 1917 [mode of acquisition unknown]; Walters Art Museum, 1931, by bequest.

Credit Acquired by Henry Walters, 1915