Matchlock Musket (me mda') barrel, probably 18th-19th century; stock and other fittings, probably mid-19th-early 20th century Tibetan Matchlock muskets were first introduced into Tibet during the 16th or 17th century, probably via China and India or through other trade routes or diplomatic contacts. Although more technologically advanced forms of firearms were known in Tibet by the late 19th century, matchlocks continued to be used regularly well into the 20th century. Most Tibetan matchlocks are plain, functional hunting weapons, with little or no ornament (see 36.25.2173 and 36.25.2174). There are a few rare Tibetan firearms that, by their decoration, can be identified as votive or ritual objects (see 2001.34 and 2005.143). The third broad category of Tibetan firearms, to which this example belongs, comprises muskets with varying degrees of decoration, but fully functional and intended for secular use. The workmanship of the embossed silver plaques covering its stock has many paralle