An important German cavalry wheellock pistol with a long frame...

An important German cavalry wheellock pistol with a long frame and a spherical stock. The barrel is made of sturdy iron, with a rifled muzzle that transitions to a round bore, slightly flared toward the muzzle. The fluted sections bear the initials “P” and “D,” corresponding to the mark of Peter Danner, an arquebusier active in Nuremberg in the late 16th century, as well as the city of Nuremberg’s half-eagle hallmark. Iron lock with an external wheel, flat body, and its wheel cover; a bassinet with a sliding bassinet cover; and a hammer heavily carved and engraved with zoomorphic and fantastical motifs. The lock is stamped with the “ZS” mark accompanied by a fleur-de-lis—a mark listed in the Neue Støckel under No. 4836—as well as the Nuremberg hallmark. This combination is documented on other Nuremberg wheellock pistols from the same period. The frame is richly decorated with engraved deer antler plates and inlays, contrasting with the dark background. The particularly abundant decoration consists of figures in costume and Oriental warriors, grotesque figures, animals, floral motifs, scrollwork, rosettes, and geometric ornaments. Large spherical buttstock, entirely covered with a radiating design of medallions and engraved plaques. Stock present. Iron fittings. Nuremberg, circa 1580–1590. Peter Danner, an arquebusier from Nuremberg, is documented in the city between 1583 and 1602. Total length: 69.5 cm. Condition: generally in fine condition. Wear and oxidation; chips, cracks, and small losses in the inlaid deer antler elements, consistent with the weapon’s age. Some historical restorations. Mechanism should be examined for proper function. Appraisal: Emmanuel Delgado