Decorative Arms: Treasures from the Robert M. Lee Collection includes more than 190 objects dating from as early as the 1500s through the modern era that showcase the skills of some of the most renowned arms makers and engravers in the world. Featuring historical suits of armor, antique firearms, swords, and modern arms, the exhibition is drawn from the private collection of Mr. Robert M. Lee — known to an international community of enthusiasts as one of the finest arms collections in the United States.
The artistry of embellishing arms is one of the most challenging of all artistic endeavors, with a rich history that reaches back to the Medieval and Renaissance eras. The exhibition offers a rare opportunity to experience the artistry of talented arms engravers from England, Italy, Belgium, and the United States who incorporate historical decorative traditions into their craftsmanship today. The design process involves collaboration among sculptures of steel and wood, goldsmiths, silversmiths, and engravers. These talented artisans create mythological, hunting, and wildlife scenes that are enhanced by ornamental designs on what have often been described as “miniature canvases.”
This exhibition was organized by the Nevada Museum of Art with curatorial support from Conor Fitzgerald, Guy Wilson, and Signa Pendegraft.
To learn more about the exhibition and related programs, read the press release.
Lead Exhibition Sponsor
Whittier Trust, Investment & Wealth Management
Major Sponsors
The Bretzlaff Foundation
The Thelma B. and Thomas P. Hart Foundation
Reno-Sparks Convention & Visitors Authority
Sponsors
Anonymous
Clark/Sullivan Construction
John C. Deane
Jackson Family Foundation
Nevada Gold Mines
Jenny and Garrett Sutton | Corporate Direct
Supporting Sponsors
Debbie Day
Matt Day, Sr.
Tammy and Michael Dermody
Lance Gilman Commercial / Industrial Real Estate
Haynie & Company
Additional Sponsors
Anonymous
Media Sponsors
Western Art & Architecture
The Big Reno Show
Reno Engraver Spotlight: Guy Leutzinger
For many years, northern Nevadans entrusted their personal firearms to local engraver Guy Leutzinger (1903-1972) who built a worldwide reputation for his fine craftsmanship and high-quality engraving. An employee of R. Herz & Bro., a family-owned jewelry store owned and operated by Richard and Carl Otto Herz beginning in 1885, Leutzinger worked out of the shop’s Virginia Street storefront servicing the engraving needs of locals and tourists alike. Leutzinger worked for R. Herz and Bros. from 1947 to 1965 while maintaining his own freelance engraving business. A selection of Leutzinger’s engraved firearms are on loan from his son, Reno resident, Robert Leutzinger.
