Pair of Flintlock Pistols

Gunsmith Henry Young American
ca. 1815
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 372
On loan to The Met
This work of art is currently on loan to the museum.
These are the only known pistols signed by Henry Young, possibly made sometime after he moved from Easton to Wilkes-Barre in about 1807. Most pairs comprise two right-handed pistols, each with its lock on the right side. This pair is unusual for having distinct right and left pistols, with locks on opposite sides. In addition, all of the mounts are silver, instead of the more typical brass.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Pair of Flintlock Pistols
  • Gunsmith: Henry Young (American, Easton, Pennsylvania, ca. 1775–ca. 1833 Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania)
  • Date: ca. 1815
  • Culture: American
  • Medium: Iron, wood, silver
  • Dimensions: approx. L. of each 11 in. (27.9 cm)
  • Classification: Firearms-Pistols-Flintlock
  • Credit Line: Private Collection
  • Object Number: L.2020.22.3a, b
  • Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor