Snaphance Lock for a Firearm
Culture
Italian
, perhaps from Brescia
Dateabout 1650–1700
Mediumsteel
Dimensions13 × 26.4 cm (5 1/8 × 10 3/8 in.), 2 lb, 11 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
MarkingsInside at rear of lockplate stamped with mark consisting of bird above conjoined group of 3 toothed circles in triangular group, the whole within circular recess. See photo in digital file.
"43" in white paint on inside of lock.
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.377
DescriptionThick steel flat lockplate of rhomboidal outline. Tail of plate is etched with figure of nude female (perhaps Venus?) holding mirror framed by foliate tendrils in background in which appears to be half-armor. Below flashpan is unidentified, diagonally divided coat of arms with scrolled supporters & fruit garland swags (see photo in digital file). Massive cock curving toward pan with urn-shaped terminal to screw. Body of cock & jaws are engraved with foliate tendrils & floral motifs.
Large flashpan like those found on wheel-locks with separate sliding pan cover. Base of this pan is externally mounted with buffer to arrest forward motion of cock when fired.
Large pivoting urn-shaped steel engraved with winged cherub's head on side of steel, face & ascendant floral candelabrum on body below. Generally similarly rendered bridle. Tumbler with half & full cocked position & vertically operating sear.
ProvenancePurchased by John W. Higgins on April 20, 1931 from Fenton & Sons, Ltd., London, England. Given to the Museum on January 8, 1947. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
On View
Not on view
late 1700s-early 1800s
