Meyer, Frederich: Weaponry catalog, Illustrated manuscript, 1609

This illustrated manuscript from 1609 is a catalog of weapons entitled “Buchensenmeysterey” or “Mastery of Rifles.” The catalog is intended to allow kings, princes and generals to equip their armies. In effect it is a precursor to the sales brochures of modern defense contractors. The artillery and rifles are referred to as “fireworks” that might be used to attack or defend fortifications or in other types of battles. Included are “mechanical devices to break walls and fortifications.”