Weapons as works of Art
Until the 15th century, weapons used for hunting were little different than those used in war. Indeed a major reason for members of the nobility to pursue large game, such as wild boar on horseback, was in order to become familiar with the threat of injury or death in the face of real danger and thus prepare them for war.
From the 15th century onwards, however, it became more common to decorate weapons used in hunting, to demonstrate the wealth and status of their owner. This developed further later, as hunting itself became a major social and courtly pursuit.
Associated objects
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Tula garniture
The Tula garniture is an ensemble of elegantly decorated guns and associated accessories made for Elizabeth Petrovna, Empress of Russia and daughter of Peter the Great.
Dates from 1752 | Object number: XII.1504
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