Matchlock muskets were first introduced into Tibet during the 16th or 17th century, probably via China and India…

…matchlocks continued to be used regularly well into the 20th century…

…The third broad category of Tibetan firearms, to which this example belongs, comprises muskets with varying degrees of decoration, but fully functional and intended for secular use.

Decorated muskets of this type were carried by individuals taking part in festivals, on ceremonial occasions, or by the guards of persons of rank…

Read more about this piece here:

https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/755339

  • Tar_AlcaranEnglish
    10•9 months ago

    fully functional and intended for secular use.

    How to spot the writings of a historian. I do love the idea of concept of separating all firearms into those with religious purposes and those with secular use.

    • @FireTowerOPMEnglish
      2•9 months ago

      I do also have to give it to the Met the description on this is much more in depth too than what you typically get with other museums like the Royal Armouries.