Matchlock pistol
Place of OriginJapan
Date1615-1868
PeriodEdo period (1615-1868)
CultureJapanese
MaterialsIron, wood, lacquer, gold, and silver
DimensionsH. 3 3/4 in x L. 12 in, H. 9.5 cm x 32.4 cm
Credit LineGift of Dr. and Mrs. William Wedemeyer
Object number2004.39
DepartmentJapanese Art
ClassificationsArms And Armament
On View
On viewLocationGallery 27
More InformationFloral scrolls in gold and silver against a black-lacquered background decorate this pistol. A family crest of golden stars, consisting of a large, central circle surrounded by eight smaller ones, has been applied to the top of the gun barrel. Intended for use by mounted samurai, these pistols were called horsemen’s cannons (bajo zutsu). But they proved to be impractical weapons for horsemen to fire, since the rider had to ignite a piece of cord in the lock, or firing chamber, while controlling his moving horse. Nonetheless, owning a pistol remained a symbol of a samurai family’s power, rank, and wealth.
approx. 1800
1615-1868
perhaps 1900 - 1950
perhaps 1925 - 1975
approx. 1800
Nara Masanaga II
approx. 1700-1800
perhaps 1925 - 1975
approx. 1877
perhaps 1925 - 1975
perhaps 1925 - 1975
approx. 1850-1950
perhaps 1900 - 1950