Collectors and historians prize artifacts that connect directly to royal provenance and documented museum records. This 17th‑century wheellock is one such piece: a rare, well‑documented firearm from the Cabinet d’Armes of King Louis XIII that blends fine metalwork, decorative inlays, and verifiable archival provenance—ideal for serious single‑shot collectors and institutional acquisitions.

FRENCH MILITARY RARE DOCUMENTED FRENCH WHEELLOCK FROM THE CABINET OF KING LOUIS XIII

Provenance and historical context

The FRENCH MILITARY RARE DOCUMENTED FRENCH WHEELLOCK FROM THE CABINET OF KING LOUIS XIII is manufactured in 1620 and is recorded in the Cabinet d’Armes inventory as number 94. Documentation includes the Sotheby’s catalog sale from the Henk Visser collection (1991) and references in Master French Gun Designs of the XVII–XIX Centuries by Stephen Grancsay, as well as research by Leonid Tarassuk. That level of provenance places this piece among the handful of Louis XIII cabinet guns known in private hands, making it a museum‑grade Single Shot collectible.

Condition and notable features

This wheellock exhibits a 46 caliber bore with a 42″ barrel, an historically large bore consistent with early 17th‑century design. The metal remains bright with areas of light staining, and the fruitwood stock is richly decorated with scrimshawed stag horn inlays. Both sides of the butt feature a mother of pearl medallion—likely a portrait of the original owner—set within a stag frame and surrounded by ball flower tendrils in natural bone and green‑stained inlays. The barrel is a two‑piece takedown: the original forward half was lost and a historically sympathetic replacement was crafted by Henk Visser; the restoration is nearly indetectable on close inspection.

Collectors should note the $125,000.99 price reflects proven provenance, exceptional decorative work, and scarcity within the Single Shot category. Shop this product to view supporting documentation and acquisition options.

Curatorial and display considerations

The 46 caliber format is principally of historical interest: display, research, and controlled museum demonstration are the primary applications. Its listed inventory ties it to institutional records at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and key private sales, underscoring its suitability for serious collections that value documented royal arms.

For curators and private buyers seeking a documented piece from the Cabinet d’Armes of Louis XIII, the FRENCH MILITARY RARE DOCUMENTED FRENCH WHEELLOCK FROM THE CABINET OF KING LOUIS XIII is a standout entry. View product details and pricing or Check current availability on the shop page to see full provenance materials and purchasing options.

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