Pocket Pistols by Richard Parrett

This rare pair of 18th century pistols, made by Richard Parrett junior, are engraved with the maker's name and inlaid with wire foliate scrollwork and engraved silver flower heads. Made to be decorative and desirable, they were also for self-defence. Coach travellers lived in fear of the highwayman. Crossing Salisbury Plain on a dark night, a gentleman could perhaps take some comfort in feeling the pistol hidden in his waistcoat pocket, or a lady might tuck one into her muff.

Purchased with the aid of grants from The Art Fund and the ACE/V&A Purchase Grant Fund.