Gustave Young (1827–1895), a German-born craftsman, engraved firearms with intricate and elaborate ornament for Colt in Hartford, Connecticut, and Smith & Wesson in Springfield, Massachusetts. His posthumous fame among firearms collectors caused the decoration on many pieces to be misattributed to his hand. Therefore, as one of the few documented examples of Young's work, this pistol is of primary importance as a touchstone for understanding his style and technique.

Reproduced by permission of the Metropolitan Museum of Art