About the artwork

American Index, Smith & Wesson 44 Magnum Revolver Frame, Smith & Wesson Headquarters, Springfield, Massachusetts

Taryn Simon
Photograph, chromogenic color print
113 x 94.6 cm
2007

Edition 4/7 + 2 AP

 

Smith & Wesson is the leading manufacturer of handguns in the United States. Following the hot forging und cutting stages of production, the frame of a revolver is transferred to the finishing department where it is de-burred, polished and blued. In the final assembly area, a barrel, cylinder and internal lock are hand fitted into the revolver. The Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution declares: “A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.”