Cody Firearms Museum – Art of Firearms

As the foremost institution in the nation for interpreting firearms, the Cody Firearms Museum is undergoing an exciting renovation in order to be an even stronger destination for both firearms enthusiasts and the general public. Opening in the summer of 2019, there will be more firearms on exhibit, additional historical context, new multimedia displays, and a wide array of interactives.

For now, you can find firearms on display throughout the Center’s other museums including a temporary exhibition featuring the best in our collection.

Keep reading for a sneak peek of what’s to come!

Area 6: Art of Firearms

This area of the Cody Firearms Museum showcases the firearm as a vehicle of artistic expression. Those who only have a surface-level appreciation for firearms can expect to be wowed by beautiful examples of embellishment throughout the ages.

Art of the Gun
Aesthetic vs. Functionality: What’s More Important, Beauty or Function?
Embellishment dates back centuries, as a result of people’s desire to personalize their belongings. The earliest forms of firearms engraving started in Europe and involved handmade craftsmanship of sporting arms. The Golden Age of engraving in America began in the 19th century and incorporated not only hand engraving but also various forms of mechanical embellishment. The era of embellishment dwindled in the 20th century until a recent revival in the modern era.

We hope you enjoy the newly renovated Cody Firearms Museum when it opens next summer!