Miniature Wrought Iron Wheel Gun Nuremberg Workshops Germany 16th century

Rare model of a wrought-iron spinning-wheel pistol from the workshops of Nuremberg (Bavaria, Germany), a late 16th-early 17th century curiosity or ceremonial object.
This pistol is in good overall condition and is of exceptional quality.
Please note: traces of oxidation on the iron, age-related wear, see photos.
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* Eight similar miniature pistols are kept at the Musée des Armées at Les Invalides (Paris - France).
"True little jewels testifying to the prodigious technical progress made in the field of harquebuserie throughout the 16th century, these miniature models of spinning-wheel pistols were primarily intended to enrich princely cabinets of curiosities. These miniature weapons come from Bavaria, in particular from the Nuremberg workshops. Made by mechanical craftsmen, harquebusiers, watchmakers, and in some cases even goldsmiths, miniature pistols were often masterpieces of mastery. Several documents attest to the specialization of certain craftsmen in this singular production, such as Michael Mann in Augsburg in the early 17th century, or Johann Carl in Nuremberg. Several specimens have retained a metal chain, enabling the pistol to be worn as a necklace on civilian clothing, like a simple charm. Numerous similar pieces are on display in major museums (Hermitage in St. Petersburg, Metropolitan Museum in New York, Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna...), a sign of the enthusiasm of the nobility and bourgeoisie for these ceremonial objects."
(Cf Musée des Armées website)
Length : 8 cm
Reference : F30 1008

All photos on :
www.antiques-delaval.com

Ref: QWCEAKMSEQ