Pair of Flintlock Pistols

Description This pair of pistols bears the arms of the young Johan Willem Friso (1687-1711), prince of Orange. He came of age (legal maturity) in 1707, and the pistols may have been presented to him then. He was a successful military commander and "stadholder" of the provinces of Friesland and Groningen. If he had not drowned in a tragic accident in 1711, he would most likely have been elected "stadholder" of the United Provinces. Beautifully balanced with restrained, curvilinear detailing in both the walnut and the gilded steel fittings, these pistols are the finest known works by Gerrit Penterman, one of the best European gun makers of the time.

Provenance Henry Walters, Baltimore [date and mode of acquisition unknown]; Walters Art Museum, 1931, by bequest.

Credit Acquired by Henry Walters