Description
John Quincy Adams Ward Colt Grips?
John Quincy Adams Ward Colt Grips. I have a set of Colt grips that are along the lines of the ones done by John Quincy Adams Ward. I have absolutely no idea whether these are modern replica’s, whether they are real or fake or just rubbish! I bought these many years ago at an Arms Fair because I liked them. I have no idea whether they are of value. I would be most grateful if you would contact me if you have any knowledge that would assist me.
If you are interested then please make me an offer!
John Quincy Adams Ward (1830-1929) was the first American sculptor to achieve national and international renown in the 19th century. Early in his career, however, like many young artists, Ward struggled to establish himself as a full-time sculptor. One of his first important commissions was to create the three-dimensional model for an ornate pistol grip, intended for a custom-made pair of pistols that were presented by President Abraham Lincoln to the governor of Adrianople, Turkey, in 1864.
That same model was used again for the grip of the Met’s beautifully decorated pistol, probably made just a few years later. In Ward’s design, the back of the grip features a female personification of Justice and Christianity, while the underside has a prominent American eagle. Intended to be seen and appreciated in the round, the grip is made of gilt brass. The rest of the pistol displays surfaces of blued steel, delicately inlaid in gold. Ward excelled at this type of intricately detailed and harmoniously balanced small work, before he became famous for the monumental outdoor sculptures by which he is remembered today.
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