Today, we look at a handgun that only one privileged person who has the money to commission Cabot Guns to make this gun will bring home. Perhaps we may never be able to see this at all as it may just be left undisturbed in its case and enclosed in glass wherever this will be displayed. But for now, it’s nice to behold when art meets firearms design.

The Phoenix 1911 pistol by Cabot Guns is one of the number of guns that the custom firearms company makes on a very limited basis. The phoenix is a mythical bird that represents renewal, rebirth, and the cycles of life and death. It is a symbol of metamorphosis, the sun, and celestial bodies, providing abundant inspiration for artists. The commissioned artwork for this project was designed to encapsulate the concepts in a succinct yet meaningful way, intertwining philosophical stories into the visual depiction.

The artwork was created with the intention of being striking, lively, and abundant in hues and shades. It expressed a feeling of motion, activity, and strain through energetic lines and molded components. The figurative components depicted the transformation process, illustrating the phoenix actively altering and transmuting its shape.

The artwork portrays the phoenix undergoing transformation. Its body and feathers were ablaze, symbolizing both burning and death. Yet, the artwork also showcased the bird’s head and fiery wings emerging from swirling ashes and smoke, representing rebirth and renewal.

The Cabot masters employed an array of techniques and materials to achieve the desired color and texture effects. The intricate engravings, multiple layers of inlaid gold, and hand-applied paint made from madder root powder all contribute to a captivating display of colors and shapes. The smoky overall finish and engravings on the grip that resemble burnt wood further enrich the theme giving the impression that the pistol too has been burnt and risen from the ashes.

The background and foreground were carefully sculpted to create a sense of depth. A deep, smoky-toned finish was applied to make it appear as though the artwork had been overtaken and subjected to burning.

Drawing from the etymology of the word “phoenix,” which is related to the use of madder root in creating red dye, the artist sourced madder root powder and mixed it with a binder and ink to create a beautiful reddish hue. This subtle touch of red was hand-painted onto specific areas of the bird’s body, connecting the artwork to the historic origins of Phoenix mythology.

Steve Parker crafted an exquisite wooden display case for the Phoenix pistol, showcasing the artwork from all angles. The top layer is finished in the Japanese wood-burning style known as Shou Sugi Ban, where the wood is charred and coated with natural oil to produce a magnificent charcoal black color that complements the legend of Phoenix. The grips are engraved and finished to mimic the color and texture of Shou Sugi Ban, making them more suitable for frequent handling. The result is a stunning display that proudly presents the Phoenix pistol.

Since this 1911 handgun is a commissioned work. It is not for sale and will be one of a kind. We’ll have to content ourselves in admiring this work in photos.